Introduction
This delightful cherry cake is a simple yet satisfying dessert that combines the tartness of cherry pie filling with the comforting sweetness of yellow cake mix. Perfect for family gatherings or get-togethers, this recipe is quick to prepare and bakes to a beautiful golden brown. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup whole milk
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the two cans of cherry pie filling and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well and spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cherry layer. Make sure to cover the cherry filling completely.
Step 4: Mix Butter and Milk
In another medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and whole milk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Pour Butter and Milk Mixture
Slowly pour the butter and milk mixture over the cake mix layer, ensuring that all the dry cake mix is moistened. If you notice any dry spots, gently press them down with a spoon, but do not stir the layers together.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream or whipped cream for added flavor.
Notes
Note 1:
Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding it to the milk to achieve a uniform mixture.
Note 2:
For a richer flavor, you may use flavored extracts other than vanilla in the cherry filling.
Note 3:
This dessert is best enjoyed warm, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Layering
Layering involves distributing different components in a dish, ensuring distinct flavors and textures. In this recipe, the cherry pie filling, dry cake mix, and the butter-milk mixture are layered to create a delicious dessert.
Mixing
Mixing is a fundamental technique where ingredients are combined. When whisking the melted butter and whole milk, make sure to blend them thoroughly for an even consistency before pouring it over the cake mix.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food using dry heat in an oven. Here, you bake the layered dessert at 350°F for 50 minutes, achieving a golden brown top and bubbling edges, which signals doneness.
Serving
Serving involves presenting the dish for enjoyment. This dessert is best served warm and can be topped with ice cream or whipped cream for added flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Using fresh cherries is possible, but it will require additional ingredients like sugar and cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency and flavor to pie filling.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings, such as blueberry or peach, based on your preference.
What can I serve with this dessert?
This dessert pairs well with ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast to the fruit and cake layers.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the dessert. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This delightful cherry dump cake is an easy dessert that combines the sweet tang of cherry pie filling with the comforting flavor of yellow cake. It’s perfect for gatherings and can be enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat.
Cherry Almond Delight
Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract to the cherry filling for a delightful twist.
Chocolate Cherry Cake
Substitute chocolate cake mix for the yellow cake for a rich and decadent version.
Peach Dump Cake
Replace cherry pie filling with canned peach slices and follow the same method for a different fruity flavor.
Berry Medley Version
Use a mix of blueberry and raspberry filling instead of cherry for a tangy burst of mixed berries.
Nutty Crunch Topping
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cake mix before pouring the butter mixture for added texture.
Oatmeal Cherry Crisp
Mix rolled oats into the yellow cake mix for a heartier texture contrasting with the cherries.
