3-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box chocolate cake mix
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), cut into 16 slices

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

Step 2: Pour the cherry pie filling into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: (Optional) Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract into the pie filling for added flavor.

Step 4: Spread the chocolate cake mix evenly over the top of the pie filling. Be careful not to mix the cake mix into the fruit.

Step 5: Evenly distribute the butter slices over the top of the cake mix.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 7: Let the cake stand for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 332
• Total Fat: 11g (14% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (28% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 20mg (7% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 373mg (16% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 59g (21% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 2g (4% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 64mg (5% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 236mg (5% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind the 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

The 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a quintessential example of American convenience baking. Originating in the mid-20th century, dump cakes emerged as a quick, no-fuss dessert for busy households. Unlike traditional cakes that require multiple steps and precise measurements, dump cakes are literally "dumped" into a panusually fruit filling first, followed by cake mix and butter. This simplicity made it especially popular in the post-World War II era, when pre-packaged cake mixes and canned fruit became household staples.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of a dump cake is consistent across the United States, regional adaptations abound. In the Midwest, cherries and apples dominate, reflecting the areas abundant orchards. In the South, peaches or blueberries are commonly used, sometimes paired with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. The chocolate cherry version, combining rich cocoa with tart cherry filling, is most popular in Northern states where cherry orchards are prevalent, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity that has become a signature flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

At first glance, dump cake may resemble cobblers, crisps, or even traditional layered cakes. The key difference lies in its preparation and texture. Unlike a cobbler, which has a biscuit-like topping, or a crisp, which incorporates a crumbly oat topping, the dump cake uses a dry boxed cake mix that transforms into a soft, moist layer as it bakes. This results in a dessert that is both cake-like and fruit-filled simultaneously, without the need for mixing or kneading.

Where You Typically Find It

Dump cakes are commonly served at casual gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Their ease of preparation makes them ideal for last-minute desserts, and they are often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Youll also find them at bake sales and church socials, where simplicity, affordability, and crowd-pleasing flavors are highly valued.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The term dump cake was first popularized in the 1950s when recipes began appearing in community cookbooks and magazines.
• Despite its humble origins, the dessert has inspired gourmet variations using fresh fruit, high-quality chocolate, or liqueur-infused fillings.
• Some enthusiasts have turned the dump cake into a seasonal ritual, with specific fruits representing summer, fall, or holiday-themed versions.
• The chocolate cherry combination specifically has been praised for its ability to mimic the flavors of more elaborate desserts like Black Forest cake, but with a fraction of the effort.

Overall, the 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake remains a beloved American classic. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors have allowed it to endure through decades of culinary trends, making it a staple in both everyday meals and celebratory gatherings.

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