Simple Dump Cake Recipe
Make an easy dump cake with fruit pie filling, boxed cake mix and butter for a golden, bubbling dessert with almost no mixing.
- Author
- By Baking Hot Recipes
- Published
- Published August 4, 2026
Quick facts
- Prep time
- 10 min
- Cook time
- 50 min
- Rise & proof
- 10 min
- Total elapsed time
- 1 hr 10 min
- Yield
- 1 9x13-inch dump cake
- Servings
- 12
About this recipe
This simple dump cake layers fruit pie filling, dry cake mix and butter in one baking dish. It is designed as an easy, beginner-friendly dessert that can be made with peach, cherry or another favorite pie filling.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 can fruit pie filling, such as peach or cherry
- 1 box yellow or butter cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
Layer and bake the dump cake
Step 1
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2
Add the fruit filling
Spread the fruit pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3
Add the dry cake mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit filling so the whole surface is covered. Do not stir the layers together.
Step 4
Add the melted butter
Pour the melted butter as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix. Cover the surface well so the topping bakes into a golden crust.
Step 5 - 50 min
Bake the dump cake
Bake at 350F (175C) for 40 to 50 minutes. Begin checking near 40 minutes because fruit moisture and oven performance can change the baking time.
Step 6
Check for doneness
The dump cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the fruit filling bubbles around the edges. A toothpick should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Step 7 - 10 min
Cool briefly and serve
Let the cake rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving warm. Add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream when desired.
Recipe notes
Why It Is Called a Dump Cake
The name comes from the simple preparation method: the ingredients are added directly to the pan with little or no mixing.
Ingredient note
Essential Ingredients
The source formula uses one can of fruit pie filling, one box of cake mix and one-half cup of melted butter. Peach and cherry fillings are suggested, with yellow or butter cake mix.
Equipment You Will Need
Use a 9x13-inch baking dish, measuring cup and a tool for spreading the layers. Grease the dish before adding the fruit.
Tip
Butter Application Techniques
This recipe uses melted butter poured evenly over the cake mix. The source also describes a cold-butter alternative using thin slices distributed across the surface.
Ingredient note
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake Variation
For the peach variation, use one can of peaches or peach filling, one box of yellow cake mix and one-half cup butter. Cinnamon or nutmeg may be sprinkled over the peaches before adding the cake mix.
Tip
Fresh vs. Canned Peaches
Canned peaches are convenient and consistent. Fresh peaches may be used, but the source advises peeling, slicing and pre-cooking them until tender.
Tip
Fruit and Seasonal Variations
Possible combinations include peaches with blueberries, cherries with cranberries, or pineapple with cherries. Apples, pears and cranberries work well with warming spices in cooler seasons.
Tip
Ingredient Quality Matters
Choose a flavorful fruit filling, a reliable cake mix and real butter. The moisture level of the fruit strongly affects the finished texture.
Warning
Texture and Moisture Balance
Too little butter can leave dry cake-mix patches, while too much fruit liquid can create a soggy center. Spread every layer evenly and monitor the cake near the end of baking.
Warning
Fixing a Dry Dump Cake
Avoid overbaking and check the dessert frequently near the end of the baking range. Dry areas may indicate that the butter was not distributed evenly.
Warning
Addressing Soggy Middles
Bake at the correct temperature and avoid excessive fruit liquid. Spread the filling evenly so moisture does not pool in the center.
Serving suggestion
Serving Suggestions
Serve dump cake warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Fresh fruit, caramel sauce, chopped nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar are optional additions.
Storage
Refrigeration and Reheating
Cool the cake completely, cover it and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350F (175C) for 15 to 20 minutes. Individual servings may also be microwaved.
Storage
Freezing and Thawing
Wrap the cooled cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature, then reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a dessert made by layering fruit and cake mix in a baking dish and baking it until the top is golden brown.
How do I make a peach cobbler dump cake?
Layer peaches, cake mix and butter in a baking dish, then bake until the topping is golden and the fruit filling is bubbly.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned peaches in a dump cake recipe?
Yes. Peel, slice and pre-cook fresh peaches until tender, then adjust added sugar and liquid to account for their moisture.
What are some common problems with dump cakes and how can I fix them?
Common problems include dry patches, a soggy center and uneven baking. Distribute the butter and fruit evenly, control excess liquid and adjust the final baking time when needed.
How do I store and reheat a dump cake?
Refrigerate the covered cake for 3 to 4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in a 350F oven for 15 to 20 minutes or warm individual servings in the microwave.
Can I customize a dump cake recipe with different fruits or spices?
Yes. Try blueberries, cherries, pineapple, apples, pears or cranberries, and add cinnamon, nutmeg or another suitable spice.
What is the best way to serve a dump cake?
Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Fresh fruit or caramel sauce may be added for extra flavor.
How long does it take to bake a dump cake?
A 9x13-inch dump cake generally bakes for 40 to 50 minutes at 350F (175C), although the source FAQ notes that some versions may take up to 60 minutes.