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Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake 1

Grandmas Cherry Dump Cake

This cherished recipe has stood the test of time, becoming a staple at family gatherings since the 1950s. 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.
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cherry Dump Cake, Easy Dessert, Vintage Recipe, Grandma's Dessert
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 320kcal

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.

Notes

Pro tip: Freeze the butter for 10 minutes before slicing for thinner, more even pieces that provide better coverage.
For a less sweet version, use tart cherry pie filling or make your own using fresh or frozen cherries.
For a dairy-free option, substitute melted coconut oil for butter.
Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a Black Forest-inspired variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 310mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 28g
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