Magical Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe: Sweet Bliss in One Bowl

Baking a delightful chocolate cherry dump cake brings pure joy to any dessert lover’s kitchen.

Sweet cherries nestled amid rich chocolate create an irresistible combination.

Layers of simplicity define this effortless treat that requires minimal preparation.

Minimal ingredients mean maximum flavor in every single bite.

Quick assembly makes this dessert perfect for spontaneous cravings or unexpected guests.

Home bakers appreciate how easily these ingredients transform into a decadent masterpiece.

FAQs

  • What ingredients do I need for this dump cake?

You’ll need cherry pie filling, chocolate cake mix, butter, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.

  • Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

No, pie filling works best because it provides the right moisture and consistency for the dump cake.

  • Is this recipe considered difficult to make?

This is an extremely easy recipe with minimal preparation – perfect for beginner bakers who want a quick dessert.

  • Do I need any special baking skills to make this dump cake?

Absolutely not! This recipe requires no mixing, no complicated techniques – just layering ingredients and baking.

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake That’s Pure Comfort

  • Minimal Prep Magic: Toss ingredients directly into the pan without complicated mixing or special techniques, making this recipe perfect for beginners or busy home cooks.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: Chocolate and cherries create an irresistible dessert that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring smiles around the dinner table.
  • Quick Dessert Solution: Requires just a few ingredients and simple steps, allowing you to satisfy sweet cravings with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream, serve at potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting weekend treat that doesn't demand professional baking skills.

What You’ll Need to Bake Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Main Ingredients:
  • Cherry Pie Filling: A sweet and tangy fruit base that provides a rich, fruity foundation for the dessert.
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient dry mix that creates the cake's structure and chocolate flavor.
  • Butter: A rich, melted ingredient that helps bind the cake mix and adds moisture.
Chocolate Components:
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Delightful morsels that add extra chocolate intensity and create pockets of melted chocolate throughout the dessert.
Baking Essentials:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Used to grease the baking dish and prevent the cake from sticking.

How to Put Together Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Easily

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up your oven to a cozy 350°F. Grab your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Cherry Foundation

Pour the vibrant cherry pie filling across the bottom of your baking dish, spreading it out into a luscious, even layer that will become the fruity base of your dessert.

Step 3: Blanket with Chocolate Mix

Gently shower the dry chocolate cake mix over the cherry layer, creating a powdery chocolate blanket that will transform into a delectable cake topping.

Step 4: Drench with Liquid Gold

Melt your butter and lovingly drizzle it across the entire surface, ensuring every bit of cake mix gets a rich, buttery coating that promises a moist and decadent treat.

Step 5: Sprinkle Chocolate Magic

Scatter semi-sweet chocolate chips across the top, allowing them to peek through the buttery mix and add extra chocolatey bursts of flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. Watch for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that signal your dessert is ready to dazzle.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Give your dump cake a short rest to set and cool slightly. Then dive in and enjoy the incredible blend of cherries and chocolate that’s sure to make taste buds dance!

Handy Tips for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Success

  • Swap fresh cherries for pie filling to reduce sugar and add natural sweetness.
  • Choose gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe celiac-friendly and inclusive.
  • Enhance flavor by adding almond extract or vanilla to the cherry layer for depth.
  • Reduce butter quantity for a lighter version or use coconut oil as a healthier alternative.
  • Garnish with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert's presentation and taste.

Fun Spins on Classic Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

  • Gluten-Free Cherry Chocolate Dump Cake: Replace regular chocolate cake mix with gluten-free chocolate cake mix, ensuring safe consumption for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cherry Dessert: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and select a vegan cake mix for a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Cherry Chocolate Cake: Choose sugar-free cherry pie filling, use a sugar-free chocolate cake mix, and swap chocolate chips for dark chocolate with higher cocoa content.
  • Nutty Cherry Chocolate Variation: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the top before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor profile.

Pairings to Enjoy Alongside Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

  • Robust red wine complements the deep chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
  • Vanilla bean ice cream balances the warm cake's intensity, adding creamy coolness to each decadent bite.
  • Dark roast coffee highlights the chocolate's complexity, cutting through the sweetness with its bold, earthy notes.
  • Amaretto liqueur drizzled on top adds sophisticated almond undertones that beautifully blend with chocolate and cherry profiles.

How to Keep Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Tasty

  • Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for 2-3 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to protect from freezer burn.
  • Microwave Reheat: Warm individual slices for 20-30 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add extra seconds if needed for desired warmth.
  • Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 300°F, cover cake with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for last 2-3 minutes to restore slight crispness on top.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Simple chocolate cherry dump cake showcases rich flavors from North American dessert traditions. Layers of cherries and chocolate create an easy, comforting treat you’ll want to share with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 1 can (21 oz or 595 g) cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Create a smooth, even foundation by carefully spreading cherry pie filling across the entire bottom of the prepared dish.
  3. Generously distribute dry chocolate cake mix over the cherry layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  4. Slowly drizzle melted butter across the cake mix, allowing it to penetrate and create a rich, moist texture.
  5. Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips uniformly over the surface, concentrating on even distribution.
  6. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling edges that indicate perfect doneness.
  7. Remove from oven and let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes, allowing the layers to settle and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Swap pie filling for fresh cherries when in season for a vibrant, tangy twist that elevates the dessert’s flavor profile.
  • Ensure even butter distribution by using a pastry brush to coat the entire cake mix layer, preventing dry spots and promoting a rich, moist texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, select a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 31 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star