Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe: Delicious Dessert Made Simple

A dump cake is a simple dessert where you “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish without stirring. For Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, you’ll use a combination of boxed chocolate cake mix and canned cherry pie filling. This method ensures a quick preparation time. The name “dump cake” reflects its ease, making it perfect for busy individuals or those new to baking.

Why Chocolate and Cherry?

Chocolate and cherry create a compelling flavor profile. The rich, decadent taste of chocolate complements the sweet-tart cherries beautifully. When baked, these ingredients meld into a moist, flavorful dessert that impresses with minimal effort. This cake can satisfy chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike, making it versatile for many occasions.

Ingredients Needed for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Choosing the Right Chocolate

Opting for a high-quality chocolate cake mix ensures the best flavor and texture for your dessert. Stick with brands known for their rich, moist cakes, such as Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker. These provide a consistent result and blend well with cherries. Dark chocolate mixes yield a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate mixes offer a sweeter, less intense option. Select based on your preference for richness.

Selecting the Best Cherries

Using high-quality canned cherry pie filling is key to achieving the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness in your dump cake. Look for brands that pack their cherries in a thick syrup with minimal added sugar. Comstock and Lucky Leaf are reputable options that consistently deliver flavorful fillings. Ensure the cherries are whole and firm to maintain texture during baking. Avoid fillings that appear overly gelatinous or have a watery consistency.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Preparing Your Ingredients

Get all your ingredients ready before beginning. You’ll need a box of chocolate cake mix, a 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling, 1 cup of melted butter, and a 14-ounce can of crushed pineapple (optional). Using room temperature ingredients ensures even mixing.

Choose a chocolate cake mix from trusted brands, like Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines, for consistent flavor and texture. Opt for dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your taste preference. Select a high-quality canned cherry pie filling, ensuring the cherries are firm and the syrup is thick. Brands like Comstock or Lucky Leaf offer balanced sweetness.

Pamper your baking dish by greasing a 9×13-inch pan to prevent sticking. This step keeps your cake intact when serving.

Baking the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the entire can of cherry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the crushed pineapple over the cherry pie filling, if you’re using it, and distribute it evenly.

Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Don’t stir the mix; it’s essential for the “dump cake” method. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This step creates a crispy, golden-brown crust during baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set.

By following these steps, you’ll create a rich, moist dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate and tart cherries perfectly.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Ideal Pairings

Pair the Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake with complementary flavors to enhance the dessert experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the ice cream balance the rich chocolate and tart cherries. For a more decadent option, use chocolate ice cream to intensify the chocolate flavor. Whipped cream offers a light, airy contrast and can be flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond extract. Fruit lovers can add fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, on the side. These fresh accents introduce a burst of freshness and color, complementing the cake’s sweet and tangy profile. If you prefer beverages, a cup of hot coffee or a glass of chilled milk pairs well, providing a soothing contrast to the cake’s richness.

Presentation Tips

Enhance the visual appeal of your Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake with simple presentation strategies. Begin by portioning the cake into even squares. Use a sharp knife to achieve clean edges and consistent servings. Dust powdered sugar over the top to add elegance and a touch of sweetness. For special occasions, add a cherry on top of each slice. This not only looks attractive but also signals the cake’s cherry content. To create a professional look, serve the cake on white plates or a cake stand. Drizzle chocolate syrup or garnish with chocolate shavings for an added visual and flavor element. Ensure that accompaniments like ice cream or whipped cream are neatly placed or piped alongside the cake slice. This attention to detail makes your dessert presentation memorable and inviting.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake offers a rich, indulgent flavor, but it’s important to be mindful of its caloric content. A typical serving (about 1/12th of a 9×13-inch pan) contains approximately 350-400 calories. This value may vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. High-quality chocolate cake mix, cherry pie filling, and additional components like butter and pineapple contribute to this calorie count.

Health Considerations

While the cake is a delightful treat, consider its nutritional components if you’re following a specific diet. The sugar content is substantial due to the cake mix and cherry pie filling, making it a dessert best enjoyed in moderation. Each serving contains around 18-22 grams of fat, primarily from the butter and cake mix. The dish also offers small amounts of vitamins and minerals from the cherries and pineapple, but these are not significant enough to provide substantial health benefits.

For those with dietary restrictions, substitutions can help make the dessert more inclusive. Using a sugar-free or gluten-free cake mix, replacing butter with a dairy-free alternative, or choosing fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling can adjust the cake’s nutritional profile. Always read labels and adjust portions to meet individual health needs.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a fuss-free dessert that promises rich flavors and a delightful texture. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be easily customized to suit dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream this cake is sure to impress. Remember to choose high-quality ingredients and follow the simple steps for a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy this easy-to-make treat and savor the combination of chocolate and cherries with every bite!