12x18 Dump Cake Recipe for Easy, Delicious Dessert

If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss dessert that delivers on flavor and comfort, a 12×18 dump cake is an excellent choice. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Its effortless process and versatile flavor options make it a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12×18-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Pour the crushed pineapple with its juice over the cherry filling, spreading it evenly. The combination of these fruits creates a sweet, tangy base.
Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Be sure to cover all the fruit to ensure a good crust formation.
Distribute the sliced butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will melt during baking, creating a rich, moist topping.

If desired, sprinkle cinnamon and salt over the top for added warmth and depth of flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the juices set and makes serving easier.

Tips

Substitutions: You can swap the cherry pie filling for other flavors like apple, blueberry, or peach to create different variations. Likewise, vanilla or lemon cake mix can be used instead of yellow for a different taste profile.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for best results.
Common mistakes: Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the topping. Keep an eye on the cake after 40 minutes to prevent burning. Also, make sure to evenly distribute the butter for a consistent topping.

Additional toppings: For extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dump cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent dessert, sprinkle chopped nuts or toasted coconut over the top before serving. It also works well as a warm dessert during colder months or as a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings.

Variations

Experiment with different fruit fillings like blueberry or apple-cinnamon for unique flavors. You can also add chopped nuts or oatmeal to the cake mix layer for extra texture. For a gluten-free version, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free baking mix and ensure the fruit fillings are gluten-free certified. Spicing up the cake with nutmeg or ginger can add seasonal flair, making it perfect for holidays.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds or until warm. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cake a few hours before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Baking time remains the same, but adding it directly from the fridge may add a few extra minutes.

Is dump cake suitable for freezing?

Dump cake can be frozen before baking. Assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to prepare the fresh fruit by cooking it down with some sugar and thickener like cornstarch to mimic the consistency of canned filling. Fresh berries or sliced apples work well, but adjust sweetness accordingly.

What if I want a more crusty top?

For a crispier topping, sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts or rolled oats over the butter before baking. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of butter to the cake mix to create a more crumbly, crunchy topping.

Is this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets?

Standard cake mixes contain gluten, so opt for a certified gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free fruit fillings to make this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets. Always check labels to ensure ingredients are gluten-free.

12×18 Dump Cake Recipe for Easy, Delicious Dessert