Chocolate and cherry make a classic combination that’s as beloved as it is indulgent. The Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake takes this dynamic duo to new heights, offering an easy and decadent dessert that anyone can whip up, no matter their skill level in the kitchen. This dessert is perfect for weekday treats, family gatherings, or special occasions. Whether you’re a fan of fruity cobblers, gooey cakes, or chewy brownies, this dessert satisfies every craving.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the recipe, nutritional facts, and more. Let’s get baking!

What Is a Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake?

A Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a dessert that combines the best elements of cherry cobbler, chocolate cake, and brownies. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—by “dumping” the ingredients into a baking dish and letting the oven work its magic, you get a dessert that is incredibly easy to make yet deliciously indulgent. The cherries provide a tart contrast to the rich chocolate, while the cake mix creates a gooey, brownie-like texture with crispy edges, perfect for serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Making this treat couldn’t be easier with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Cherry Pie Filling:

• Quantity: 2 cans (21 oz each)
• Why It’s Important: The pie filling is the base of the dessert, providing a sweet and tangy fruit layer that perfectly complements the chocolate cake mix.

2. Chocolate Cake Mix:

• Quantity: 1 box (15.25 oz) of Betty Crocker™ Devil’s Food Cake Mix (or similar)
• Why It’s Important: The cake mix acts as the “dry ingredient” that forms the cake layer. It’s key to giving the dessert its rich, chocolatey flavor.

3. Butter:

• Quantity: 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks), melted
• Why It’s Important: The melted butter is poured over the dry cake mix to create a crispy, golden topping while keeping the cake moist in the center.

4. Optional Extras:

• Fresh Cherries: 2 cups (pitted)
• Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Topping: For serving

Step-By-Step Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

This dump cake is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease your baking dish: Spray the bottom of a 13×9-inch (3-quart) glass or ceramic baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Add Cherry Pie Filling

• Spread 2 cans (21 oz each) of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’re using fresh cherries, pit and add them to the dish on top of the pie filling.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

• Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix (without preparing it according to the box instructions) evenly over the cherries. Gently shake the pan to help distribute the cake mix evenly.

Step 4: Add the Butter

• Pour 3/4 cup of melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Tilt the pan to ensure the butter covers as much of the dry cake mix as possible. This is key to getting a crispy top and a gooey center.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake at 350°F for 42 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The cake will still be gooey in the center, which is part of its charm.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Allow the cake to cool for  45 minutes before serving. This helps it set properly, making it easier to scoop and ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly.  This allows the filling to set and makes the cake easier to scoop.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Directions for a 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition in each serving (based on 12 servings):

This dessert is indulgent but worth the splurge every once in a while. It’s also great for potlucks and family gatherings!

Reviews and Community Feedback

What People Are Saying

• Samantha: “This cake was a hit at our family dinner! So simple and delicious. The chocolate and cherry flavors pair so well together.”
• James: “I never thought something so easy could taste this good. It’s definitely a keeper for busy nights when you want something sweet!”
• Maria: “I added a handful of fresh cherries, and it added the perfect pop of tartness. My family loved it!”

Why It’s a Favorite:

• Quick to Make: Only 10 minutes of prep time!
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Affordable: Uses pantry staples, so you won’t break the bank making it.
• Customizable: You can switch up the fruit or even use different cake mixes for variety.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

• Use room temperature butter: If you don’t have time to melt butter, let it soften at room temperature and cut it into small chunks. This will help it melt more evenly in the oven.
• Don’t stir the ingredients: A dump cake works because the ingredients remain separate, and the oven does the magic of blending them together.
• Add a pinch of salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the cake before baking can enhance the chocolate flavor and create a great contrast with the sweet cherries.
• Top with fresh whipped cream: If you don’t have ice cream, fresh whipped cream is a great substitute.
• Experiment with other fruit: If you’re not a fan of cherries, try blueberries, strawberries, or peaches for a similar effect!

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake and refrigerate it before baking. Let it come to room temperature before baking, and bake it as usual.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, but be sure to add some sugar or sweetener to balance the tartness. You’ll need about 4 cups of fresh cherries for this recipe.

Can I use a different cake mix?

Absolutely! While the Devil’s Food Cake Mix is recommended for its rich chocolate flavor, you can use any chocolate cake mix or even a white cake mix if you prefer a different flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a classic and incredibly easy dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and cherry in a way that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or as a special treat for a family celebration. The gooey center, crispy edges, and bubbly fruit filling make it irresistibly delicious, and serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping takes it over the top. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite.

Enjoy the simple pleasures of this easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, and don’t forget to experiment with different fruits and cake mixes to make it your own!