Easy Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake: Your Go-To Dessert for Any Occasion
There’s something uniquely comforting about a dessert that practically makes itself while filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Our Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake is exactly that kind of treat. While some might affectionately call it Crockpot Cherry Dump Cake – a name that brings a smile to many faces due to its straightforward, no-fuss nature – its appeal lies in its simplicity and delicious results. This versatile dessert serves a dual purpose: it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort, and it effortlessly transforms your kitchen into a haven of sweet, warm scents.
The beauty of this slow cooker dessert isn’t limited to just cherries. While a classic cherry pie filling creates a beloved favorite, the recipe is wonderfully adaptable to a variety of fruit flavors. Blueberry, apple, peach, or even mixed berry fillings are highly recommended alternatives, each offering a delightful twist on the original. Around here, cherry holds a special place, making it our go-to choice, but don’t hesitate to experiment with your personal favorites. For an added layer of texture and richness, chopped pecans or walnuts are an optional, yet highly recommended, topping.
This recipe, originally penned years ago, has been a timeless favorite in countless homes. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its simplicity and deliciousness. We’ve kept the endearing “Dump Cake” name, a term that humorously highlights how effortlessly this dessert comes together – simply “dump” the ingredients into your slow cooker! While we admit the name “Crockpot Dump Cake” still brings a chuckle, its playful charm is something we wouldn’t change. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the best things in life are the simplest, and often, the most delightfully named. Today, we’re not just sharing a recipe; we’re sharing a cherished tradition, updated with more detail and tips to ensure your slow cooker dump cake experience is nothing short of perfect.
What Exactly is a Dump Cake?
For those unfamiliar, a dump cake is arguably one of the easiest desserts you can make. The name comes from the preparation method: you literally “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish (or in this case, a slow cooker) without much mixing. Typically, it involves a layer of fruit, topped with a dry cake mix, and then butter, which melts down to create a crumbly, cake-like topping. The result is a moist, fruit-filled dessert with a golden, slightly crisp crust that tastes remarkably like a cobbler or a fruit crisp, but with significantly less effort. It’s the ultimate dessert for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you crave something sweet without the fuss of traditional baking.
Why Make Dump Cake in a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker for dump cake is a game-changer. It frees up your oven, making it perfect for holidays or when you’re baking other dishes. The slow, even heat of a crockpot ensures a perfectly cooked cake every time, preventing dry edges and promoting a wonderfully moist interior. Plus, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deeper, richer taste. And let’s not forget the incredible aroma that will waft through your home for hours – it’s an added bonus that makes this dessert even more appealing.
Recipe
Crockpot Cherry Dump Cake
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Ingredients
- Butter for greasing the slow cooker (About 1-2 tablespoons, softened)
- 1 can cherry or blueberry pie filling (21 oz / approximately 595 grams)
- 1 standard-size box yellow or white cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz / 432 grams)
- 8 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small chunks, salted preferred (1 stick or 114 grams)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but highly recommended for texture)
Instructions
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Generously grease the interior of your slow cooker pot with a tablespoon or two of softened butter. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving.
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Add Fruit Filling: Pour the entire can of cherry (or chosen) pie filling evenly across the bottom of the greased slow cooker. Spread it out gently with a spatula to form a uniform layer.
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Create the Cake Topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry cake mix and the cold butter chunks. Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two knives, cut the butter into the cake mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Some larger pieces of butter are fine and will melt beautifully into the cake.
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Layer the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly cake mix and butter mixture over the fruit filling in the slow cooker. Try to cover the fruit layer as completely as possible.
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Add Nuts (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the cake mix layer.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 2 to 3 hours. The cake is ready when the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly around the edges. Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model, so keep an eye on it after 2 hours.
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Serve Warm: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the cake to set slightly. Serve the dump cake warm directly from the slow cooker into individual bowls. It’s delightful on its own or enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
Oven Baking Instructions: No slow cooker? No problem! This dump cake can easily be made in a traditional oven. For a half-sized version (using quantities for a small crockpot), bake it in a 9-inch deep-dish glass pie plate or an 8-inch square pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until the cake topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling. For the full version (using a whole can of filling and full box of mix), use a 13×9 inch baking pan, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Flavor Variations and Customizations:
- Fruit Filling: Beyond cherry and blueberry, try apple, peach, mixed berry, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to apple or peach fillings for extra warmth.
- Cake Mix: While yellow or white cake mix is standard, chocolate cake mix pairs wonderfully with cherry or raspberry filling. Spice cake mix is excellent with apple or pumpkin filling, especially in the fall.
- Butter: For extra richness and a slightly nutty flavor, you can melt the butter and drizzle it over the cake mix instead of cutting it in. This will result in a more uniform, less crumbly topping.
- Toppings: Aside from pecans or walnuts, consider adding shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon to the cake mix layer before cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, a generous dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a cream cheese glaze.
Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake:
- Don’t Stir: The “dump” in dump cake means no stirring! The layers are designed to cook and meld together on their own.
- Even Butter Distribution: Cutting the butter into small chunks helps it melt evenly over the cake mix, ensuring a consistent texture.
- Preheating: While not strictly necessary for slow cookers, a warm slow cooker (if yours has a “warm” setting) can sometimes speed up the initial cooking.
- Check for Doneness: The cake is done when the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cakey part comes out mostly clean, and the fruit filling is clearly bubbly.
Storage and Reheating:
Leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds, or warm larger portions in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Enjoying Your Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake
Once your Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake is ready, the best part is serving it up! The aroma alone is a treat, but that first spoonful is pure bliss. The warm, gooey fruit filling combined with the tender, slightly crisp cake topping creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s incredibly satisfying on its own, but for an extra special touch, consider serving it with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melts into the warm cake, or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of elegance. This dessert is perfect for a cozy family night, a gathering with friends, or simply as a comforting treat after a long day.
The beauty of this slow cooker method is that it allows you to set it and forget it, leaving you free to focus on other tasks or simply relax. When it’s time for dessert, you’ll have a warm, homemade treat that everyone will love, without any last-minute stress. Whether you call it Slow Cooker Cherry Dump Cake or Crockpot Cherry Dump Cake, its ease and deliciousness remain undisputed. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite hands-off dessert!