Introduction
If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and ridiculously easy to make, this Chocolate cherry dump cake might just become your new favorite. It’s the kind of recipe you pull out when you need a quick fix for a sweet tooth, or when guests are on their way and you want something crowd-pleasing without the fuss. With just a few pantry staples—think cherry pie filling and a box of chocolate cake mix—you’re minutes away from baking up something magical.
What makes this easy Chocolate cherry dump cake so irresistible? It’s the way the tart cherries melt into the chocolatey base, forming that warm, soft center with a lightly crisp topping. Whether you’re making a cozy dessert for two or a fuss-free treat for a potluck, this classic combination never disappoints.
Let’s dive into one of the best Chocolate cherry dump cake recipes you’ll ever try—simple enough for a weeknight, special enough for the holidays.
Key Benefits for Chocolate cherry dump cake
- Quick & Effortless: Just layer, bake, and enjoy—no mixing bowls required.
- Minimal Ingredients: Perfect for busy days or last-minute desserts.
- Customizable: Works with frozen cherries, extra chocolate, or even in a crockpot.
- Crowd Favorite: A nostalgic treat that pleases kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Serve warm with ice cream or chilled as a rich cherry-chocolate slice.
Ingredients for Chocolate cherry dump cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredibly easy Chocolate cherry dump cake. Each item is simple, accessible, and works beautifully together to create that rich, gooey goodness you’re craving.
Shopping List:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
This brings that tart-sweet cherry base. If you only have one can on hand, don’t worry—this still works great as a chocolate cherry dump cake with 1 can of pie filling. Just expect a slightly thinner fruit layer. - 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
Devil’s food cake mix works especially well for that deep chocolate flavor. This is where the “dump” part really shines—no mixing required. - ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Pouring melted butter over the dry mix creates that golden, slightly crispy topping. You can also use thin pats of butter across the surface if you prefer the old-fashioned method.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 eggs (optional)
For a more cake-like structure, you can whisk in eggs with the pie filling. This is a common trick for a more structured Chocolate cherry dump cake with eggs. - 1 cup frozen cherries
Want more juicy bites? Add these in with the filling for a twist on a chocolate cherry dump cake with frozen cherries. - ½ cup chocolate chips
Because extra chocolate is never a bad idea. Sprinkle over the top before baking.
These ingredients come together in the most satisfying way—and with room to personalize. Whether you’re keeping it classic or experimenting a bit, you’ve got all the pieces to make your version of the best chocolate cherry dump cake.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
- Dump the cherry pie filling into the dish and spread it evenly.
- Add eggs or frozen cherries here if using.
- Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the cherry layer—no mixing needed.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, making sure to moisten most of the dry areas.
- Optional: Top with chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is set and slightly crisp.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before serving warm.
This method gives you that signature old fashioned Chocolate cherry dump cake texture—soft, gooey cherry filling with a rich, chocolatey top.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Use frozen cherries to add texture and juiciness—just toss them in with the pie filling.
- Want a fluffier texture? Mix in two eggs with the filling before layering.
- For a richer taste, sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Making it in summer? Try a chocolate cherry dump cake in crockpot—just 2.5 hours on high!
- Craving something more classic? Stick with the old fashioned chocolate cherry dump cake method using pats of butter instead of melted.
These small tweaks let you customize the cake to suit your mood—or your pantry!
Serving Suggestions
- Warm & Cozy: Serve fresh from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that melt-in-your-mouth combo.
- Chilled Delight: Let it cool and refrigerate for a firm, sliceable dessert.
- Whipped Finish: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top for a bakery-style touch.
- Potluck-Perfect: Bring it in the baking dish—it travels well and disappears fast.
No matter how you serve it, this best chocolate cherry dump cake always hits the sweet spot!
Conclusion
This Chocolate cherry dump cake proves that a simple recipe can deliver big on flavor and comfort. With minimal prep and plenty of room for creativity, it’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re going for the easy weeknight version or putting a twist on the old fashioned chocolate cherry dump cake, one thing’s for sure—this treat never disappoints.