If you’re craving the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cherry cobbler but with a twist, you’re in for a treat! This Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix—or dump cake, as some like to call it—is so easy to whip up, you might just find yourself making it every week. Imagine sweet, sticky cherry filling bubbling beneath a blanket of light, fluffy cake. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This dessert is not just a summer delight; it’s perfect for cozy gatherings all year round. Trust me, you’ll love how simple yet delicious this treat is—an absolute winner for parties or family dinners!
Why You’ll Love Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix (Dump Cake)
This Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix is a game-changer! The creamy cherry filling combined with the cake mix creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s effortlessly delicious without taking hours in the kitchen. You can savor the flavors of summer cherries any time of year, making it a perfect dessert for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Here are a few more reasons you’ll adore this dish:
- Quick and Easy: Takes just minutes to prepare—perfect for busy days!
- Comforting Texture: The crunchy cake crust contrasts beautifully with the gooey cherry filling.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients that are easy to stock up on.
- No-Fuss Meal Prep: Just dump and bake—no need for fancy techniques!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will rave about this delicious dessert.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize with different fillings or toppings to suit your preferences.
Ready to dive into the cherry goodness? Let’s get started!
Essential Ingredients for Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix (Dump Cake)
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 oz each) – The star of the dish! This creates a sweet and tart base.
- 15.25 oz box yellow cake mix – Provides that fluffy texture we all love for the topping.
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture, creating a delicious crumb.
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (or vanilla extract) – A splash of flavor that enhances the cherries’ sweetness.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix (Dump Cake)
Phase 1 – Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine your cherry filling and almond extract for extra flavor.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- Pour the cherry filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherries—don’t stir!
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much mix as possible.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cherry filling is bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the tastier your cobbler will be, so choose high-quality cherry filling.
- Mix It Up: Try using different pie fillings like blueberry or peach for a twist.
- Storage Saver: Make double the amount and freeze half before baking for a quick dessert you can whip out on a busy day.
- Check for Doneness: Look for a golden top and bubbling filling—you want that perfect crispy edge!
- Butter Alternatives: If you need a dairy-free version, swap butter with coconut oil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is forgetting to grease the pan. Without grease, your cobbler can stick, making it hard to serve! Always use a cooking spray or butter to coat the baking dish.
Another error is overmixing the cake mix. Remember, you don’t want to mix the cake mix and cherry filling—just sprinkle and drizzle. This helps achieve that dreamy, layered texture.
Finally, not letting it cool before serving can lead to a soupy mess. Let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and will be easier to scoop!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix for a delicious alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread.
- Flavor Twists: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping for extra warmth.
- Cook Methods: Try making this in an Instant Pot or air fryer for a quicker option.
How to Serve Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix
- Best Pairings: Ice cream, whipped cream, or vanilla yogurt.
- Toppings: A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate your dessert.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! You can prepare the cherry filling and cake mix ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked cobbler for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Reheating
To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30-45 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of pie filling? Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw and sweeten them a bit before using.
How to make it extra creamy without cream? Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream right before serving for a creamy touch without using heavy cream.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and increase your baking time slightly.
How to fix a too-thick cobbler? Add a splash of water to the fruit filling before baking it again to help loosen it up.
Making this Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix really is as simple as it sounds and tastes just as wonderful. With its gooey cherry goodness and light, fluffy topping, you’ll want to share this delightful dessert with everyone! Don’t forget to rate or leave a comment if you try this recipe, or explore our other delicious dessert recipes for more fun in the kitchen!
Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix (Dump Cake)
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine your cherry filling and almond extract for extra flavor.
- Pour the cherry filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherries—don’t stir!
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much mix as possible.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cherry filling is bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!