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Introduction for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Did you know that over 85% of home bakers are searching for desserts that combine nostalgic flavors with minimal effort? That’s exactly what makes Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake one of the most beloved desserts across generations. This cherished recipe has stood the test of time, becoming a staple at family gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday celebrations since the 1950s when convenience baking first became popular in American households.
The magic of this dessert lies in its beautiful simplicity – just a handful of ingredients “dumped” into a pan create a bubbling, fruity delight with a golden buttery crust that tastes like it took hours of careful preparation. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone who rarely ventures into the kitchen, this old fashioned cherry dump cake recipe promises foolproof results that will transport you straight back to grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients List for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
For this quintessential vintage dessert, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (vanilla or white cake mix works too)
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into thin slices
- ½ cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for enhanced cherry flavor)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- For a less sweet version, use tart cherry pie filling or make your own using fresh or frozen cherries
- Butter can be replaced with margarine in a pinch, though butter provides the best flavor
- For a dairy-free option, substitute melted coconut oil for butter
- Other cake mix flavors that pair wonderfully include chocolate (for a cherry cordial flavor) or almond
- Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a Black Forest-inspired variation
Timing for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes (that’s 75% less prep time than traditional cakes!)
- Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: Under 1 hour
- Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly (perfect for first-time bakers)
- Make-Ahead Potential: Can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and baked when needed
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your delicious dessert won’t stick to the pan when serving.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Base
Open both cans of cherry pie filling and spread them evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. If you’re using the optional almond extract, gently fold it into the cherry filling before spreading. The vibrant red cherries will create a stunning base for your cake.
Step 3: Layer the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling. Resist the urge to stir or mix the layers – the beauty of a dump cake lies in its distinct layers that magically come together during baking.
Step 4: Add the Butter Layer
Arrange the thin slices of cold butter over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible. This is critical for proper cooking – any dry spots might remain powdery after baking. Pro tip: Freeze the butter for 10 minutes before slicing for thinner, more even pieces that provide better coverage.
Step 5: Top with Nuts (Optional)
If using, sprinkle the sliced almonds across the top of your cake. They’ll toast beautifully during baking, adding both flavor and texture contrast to your finished dessert.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cherry goodness. For even browning, consider rotating the pan halfway through baking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your dump cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This cooling period helps the filling set slightly while still keeping that wonderful warm quality everyone loves.
Nutritional Information for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 310mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 2g
Note: This classic comfort dessert is meant to be an occasional treat. Studies show that balanced eating that includes occasional indulgences actually leads to more sustainable eating habits over time.
Healthier Alternatives for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
For those watching their nutritional intake, consider these modifications:
- Use a reduced-sugar cake mix to cut approximately 30% of the sugar content
- Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter texture and reduced fat
- Add 1 cup of rolled oats to the cake mix for added fiber and a heartier texture
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free cake mix replacement
- Increase the nutritional value by adding 1 cup of chopped walnuts, which provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids
Serving Suggestions for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
This versatile dessert shines in various serving styles:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the classic presentation
- Pair with fresh whipped cream and additional fresh cherries when in season
- For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual ramekins with a sprig of mint
- Create a dessert bar experience by offering various toppings: chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
- For brunch gatherings, warm slightly and serve alongside coffee for a delightful sweet option
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Even with a simple recipe, these pitfalls can affect your results:
- Mistake #1: Stirring the layers together. This creates a completely different texture – the magic happens when layers remain separate during baking.
- Mistake #2: Insufficient butter coverage. According to baking experts, uneven butter distribution leaves dry patches in the finished cake.
- Mistake #3: Using melted butter instead of sliced. While seemingly convenient, melted butter often creates a soggy middle rather than the perfect crisp-tender texture.
- Mistake #4: Opening the oven repeatedly to check. Each opening can drop the temperature by up to 25 degrees, extending baking time and affecting texture.
- Mistake #5: Serving immediately from the oven. Allow that brief cooling period for flavors to meld and filling to set slightly.
Storing Tips for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Proper storage extends the enjoyment of your dessert:
- Cover leftovers with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to recapture that just-baked warmth
- For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months
- To prepare ahead for events, assemble the cake without baking, cover tightly, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake fresh when needed
- For best texture when enjoying leftovers, a quick minute under the broiler can restore some of the topping’s crispness
Conclusion for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
This Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake represents everything wonderful about home baking – simplicity, comfort, and crowd-pleasing results. With just minutes of preparation and basic pantry ingredients, you can create a dessert that evokes the warmth and love of generations past. The contrast between the tart cherry filling and buttery cake topping creates a perfectly balanced dessert that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, contributing to a potluck, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe delivers consistent joy with minimal effort. Try making this cherished classic today, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to dessert for years to come!
FAQs for Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?
Yes! For 2 cans of cherry pie filling, substitute 4 cups of pitted fresh cherries mixed with 1 cup of sugar and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Cook this mixture on the stovetop until thickened before using in the recipe.
Why is my cake still powdery on top after baking?
This typically happens when the butter doesn’t cover all the cake mix. For better coverage, try grating cold butter over the surface or using slightly more butter cut into smaller pieces.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Layer ingredients as directed in a greased slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4 hours until the edges are bubbly and the top is set.
Is dump cake the same as cobbler?
While similar, they differ in technique. Cobblers typically have a batter or biscuit-like topping, while dump cakes use dry cake mix and butter for their signature texture.
Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Certainly! This versatile recipe works wonderfully with peach, apple, blueberry, or pineapple pie fillings. You can even combine fruits for custom flavors.
Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 2 cans cherry pie filling 21 oz each
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz (vanilla or white cake mix works too)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cut into thin slices (1½ sticks)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds optional
- 1 tsp almond extract optional, for enhanced cherry flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Open both cans of cherry pie filling and spread them evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. If using the optional almond extract, gently fold it into the cherry filling before spreading.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling. Resist the urge to stir or mix the layers.
- Arrange the thin slices of cold butter over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible.
- If using, sprinkle the sliced almonds across the top of your cake.
- Place your baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow your dump cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.