Ingredients Overview
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and what they do:
1. Cherry Pie Filling (1 Large Can)
- The fruity, tart base that gives the dessert its signature flavor.
- Canned filling is convenient, but homemade takes it to the next level.
2. Yellow Cake Mix (1 Box)
- Adds structure and a sweet, buttery crust on top.
- You don’t need to mix it—just sprinkle it evenly over the cherries.
3. Butter (1 Stick, Melted)
- Helps the cake mix cook and crisp on top.
- Melted butter spreads more evenly over the dry cake mix.
Optional:
- White Chocolate Chips: For extra sweetness and a creamy contrast.
- Nuts: Add crunch (pecans or almonds work great).
- Spices: Cinnamon or nutmeg add depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter.
- This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add Cherry Filling
- Pour the entire can of cherry pie filling into the slow cooker.
- Use a spoon or spatula to spread it into an even layer.
Step 3: Dump the Cake Mix
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cherry layer.
- Do not stir! Keeping layers separate gives the dessert its unique texture.
Step 4: Pour Melted Butter
- Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface.
- Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible to avoid dry patches.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings
- Sprinkle white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or spices if desired.
Step 6: Slow Cook
- Cover with the lid and cook on High for 3 hours.
- The top should look golden and slightly crisp when done.
Step 7: Serve
- Scoop the cake into bowls.
- Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
How to Make Homemade Cherry Pie Filling (Optional)
Want to make your dump cake extra special? Try this easy homemade cherry filling.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Quick Directions:
- In a saucepan, heat cherries over medium heat.
- Once juices release, add sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Cool slightly before using in your slow cooker.
Tips for the Best Dump Cake Texture
- Don’t stir the layers. Keeping cake mix on top gives a cobbler-like crust.
- Evenly distribute butter. Use a spoon to ensure every part gets moisture.
- Use high heat. Low heat will make the dessert too soggy.
- Let it rest. After cooking, remove the lid and let it sit for 10–15 minutes for better texture.
Slow Cooker Tips and Best Practices
- Every slow cooker is different. Check at the 2.5-hour mark if you’re using a newer or more powerful model.
- Avoid removing the lid often. This releases heat and slows cooking.
- Use a liner. Disposable slow cooker liners can make cleanup a breeze.
- Cook uncovered at the end. For extra crispiness, remove the lid for the last 20 minutes.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious ideas:
Fruit Variations:
- Apple pie filling
- Peach slices with cinnamon
- Blueberry pie filling
- Pineapple chunks + coconut
Cake Mix Variations:
- Chocolate cake mix + cherries = Black Forest Dump Cake
- Spice cake mix + apple = Autumn flavors
- White or butter pecan cake mix = Richer taste
Add-Ins:
- Chopped nuts (pecans, almonds)
- Coconut flakes
- Mini marshmallows (added during last 30 minutes)
- Chocolate or white chocolate chips
- Caramel drizzle after baking
Serving Suggestions
This cherry dump cake is incredibly versatile:
- Classic Combo: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for extra indulgence.
- Yogurt: Great for a sweet breakfast treat.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a light finish.
How to Store and Reheat Dump Cake
Storing:
- Let the cake cool to room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds.
- Reheat larger portions in the slow cooker on Warm or Low for 30–60 minutes.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead:
- Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
- Cook the next day as directed.
Freezing:
- Cool the dump cake completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Dry Patches in the Cake Mix
- Solution: Pour melted butter slowly and evenly. Add a few teaspoons of water if needed to moisten dry spots.
Cake Too Runny
- Solution: Make sure you don’t stir the layers and cook uncovered at the end for a crisp topping.
Too Sweet
- Solution: Use homemade cherry filling or unsweetened frozen fruit for more control.
Cake Mix Sinks
- Solution: Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the fruit and don’t press down or mix.
Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake FAQs
Can I use other pie fillings?
Yes! Try apple, peach, blueberry, or mixed berry.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but butter gives a richer flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your pie filling is also gluten-free.
Can I cook it on Low?
It’s not recommended. Low often results in soggy texture.
Can I use a homemade cake mix?
Absolutely! Mix 2 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 10 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugar: 31g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
Nutrition will vary based on added ingredients or homemade filling.
Printable Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake
Serves: 10 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 3 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 large can cherry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted
Optional:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
- Grease your slow cooker.
- Pour in cherry pie filling and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle cake mix evenly on top.
- Drizzle melted butter to cover as much mix as possible.
- Add chips or nuts if desired.
- Cook on High for 3 hours. Let rest for 10–15 mins.
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Final Thoughts: Why Dump Cake Will Be Your Go-To Dessert
Dump cakes are the unsung heroes of easy desserts—zero hassle, maximum flavor. With minimal prep and endless customization options, this Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake is destined to become your favorite go-to treat. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers the comfort and satisfaction that only a warm dessert can bring.
So grab your slow cooker, “dump” the ingredients, and get ready for a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen (even though you didn’t).