Cherry Berry Dump Cake is the sort of irresistible dessert that feels like pure magic—minimal prep, just a handful of staple ingredients, and an explosion of sweet-tart, buttery flavor in every bite. If you love a treat that’s juicy in the center with that golden, crumbly top, this recipe is about to become your go-to for any gathering or weeknight craving. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply yourself, Cherry Berry Dump Cake promises maximum flavor payoff with barely any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cherry Berry Dump Cake is its delightful simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, creating fruity layers and a comforting, crisp topping. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a thing!
- Cherry pie filling: The base of the cake, it brings lush sweetness and a deep cherry flavor that anchors the fruitiness.
- Mixed berries (fresh or frozen): A colorful blend of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds bright bursts of tartness for contrast.
- Yellow cake mix: This shortcut creates that signature golden, buttery crust with practically zero effort.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Helps turn the cake mix into a crisp, flavorful topping. Melted butter ensures every crumb is coated.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor and adds a homey aroma that balances all the fruit.
- Granulated sugar: A light sprinkle on top provides an extra touch of sweetness and a delicate crunch as it bakes.
- Salt: A pinch brings out all the flavors and keeps the dessert from being one-note sweet.
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect for serving, adding creamy coolness and extra decadence.
How to Make Cherry Berry Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving those perfect, gooey scoops of Cherry Berry Dump Cake so much easier later on.
Step 2: Layer the Cherry Pie Filling
Spoon the entire can of cherry pie filling evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the first juicy layer and sets the stage for all the fruity flavors to mingle beautifully as the dessert bakes.
Step 3: Add the Mixed Berries
Next, scatter the mixed berries over the cherry filling. Don’t worry if they’re frozen—no need to thaw. The variety of berries brings a beautiful color and a tangy edge, making every bite unique.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Grab your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly right over the berry layer. Don’t stir or press down; just let the dry mix float atop the fruit. This is what will transform into that dreamy, crumbly crust.
Step 5: Butter and Flavor Boost
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the melted butter with vanilla extract. Drizzle this mixture as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix, covering as much of the surface as you can. Then, finish with a gentle sprinkle of granulated sugar and salt—these will add beautiful texture and balance.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see luscious fruit bubbling up at the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and don’t forget to pair each portion with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to go all out!
How to Serve Cherry Berry Dump Cake
Garnishes
A dessert this vibrant calls for the finishing touch! A tall swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will highlight the warm, tart fruit and contrast deliciously with the crisp top. For something extra-special, a sprinkle of fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar never goes amiss.
Side Dishes
While Cherry Berry Dump Cake is absolutely the star, it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving it at brunch, it also makes a delightful companion to a platter of scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad, balancing sweet with savory.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try portioning the Cherry Berry Dump Cake into individual ramekins before baking for personalized mini desserts. Or, serve it parfait-style: layer small scoops of the cake with whipped cream in clear glasses, letting those berry streaks and golden crumbs shine through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers—lucky you!—simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer the remains to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though the topping will soften slightly over time.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Cherry Berry Dump Cake for another day! Once fully cooled, wrap portions securely or store them in freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked flavor and texture, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–40 seconds, or pop the entire dish into a 350°F oven until warmed through—about 15 minutes. A quick reheat crisps the topping back up and revives the beautiful gooey fruit.
FAQs
Can I use different types of berries?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite berries—strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, or even a frozen berry blend will all work. Just keep it around two cups total for best results.
Is it possible to make Cherry Berry Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of regular. Double-check that your pie filling and berries are gluten-free, and you’re all set for a completely gluten-friendly version.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prep the layers a few hours ahead and keep the unbaked dish in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best crisp-topped, warm-fruited results. If baked ahead, gently reheat as needed.
Why shouldn’t I mix the cake mix into the berries?
The “dump” method is all about layering! Keeping the cake mix dry on top ensures it forms a crispy, craggy crust as it bakes, giving Cherry Berry Dump Cake its signature texture and inviting golden top.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers are delicious both warm and at room temperature. Many fans love to zap them in the microwave and add a splash of fresh cream or a scoop of ice cream. It’s comfort food that tastes just as great on day two!
Final Thoughts
If easy, crowd-pleasing desserts are your thing, you’ll want to add Cherry Berry Dump Cake to your baking rotation right away. Every bubbly, golden bite brings joy, whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself. Grab a can, some berries, and get ready for your new favorite fruity classic!
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Cherry Berry Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious Cherry Berry Dump Cake made with cherry pie filling, mixed berries, cake mix, and butter. Perfect for a quick and easy dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Cherry Berry Dump Cake Ingredients:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Cherry Pie Filling: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Mixed Berries: Scatter the mixed berries evenly over the cherry pie filling.
- Sprinkle Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Do not stir.
- Drizzle Butter and Vanilla: Drizzle the melted butter and vanilla extract evenly over the cake mix. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and salt.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 calories
- Protein: 2g
