Name: Blueberry Dump Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (21 oz each) blueberry pie filling (or 4 cups fresh/frozen blueberries with 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tbsp cornstarch); 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted or thinly sliced; Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest; Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon or 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional toppings: 1/4 cup chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple—no mixing, no fancy tools, just a few ingredients dumped into a baking dish. The combination of warm, sweet blueberries and buttery, golden topping creates a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking to whip up a tasty treat without much fuss. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Blueberry pie filling (or fresh/frozen blueberries with sugar and cornstarch)
Yellow or white cake mix
Unsalted butter (melted or thinly sliced)
Optional: lemon zest, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for added flavor
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or oats

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer the filling: Pour the blueberry pie filling into the bottom of the prepared dish. If using fresh or frozen blueberries, mix with sugar and cornstarch before adding.
Add flavor (optional): Sprinkle lemon zest, a dash of cinnamon, or a splash of vanilla extract over the blueberries for extra depth.
Add the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the blueberry layer. Do not stir.
Top with butter: Drizzle melted butter or place thin slices of butter evenly over the dry cake mix to ensure full coverage and golden crispness.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling at the edges.
Cool slightly and serve warm. Add ice cream or whipped cream for a perfect finishing touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

Mixed Berry Version: Combine blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
Lemon Blueberry: Add lemon pie filling or lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
Spiced Version: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the blueberries for a cozy, warm flavor.
Crumb Topping: Sprinkle a mix of oats, brown sugar, and chopped nuts over the top for added crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dump cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes. This dessert can also be served cold or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

FAQs

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?

Yes. Toss them with sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling.

Can I make this recipe with frozen blueberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before using, and mix with sugar and cornstarch to mimic pie filling.

Do I have to use yellow cake mix?

No, white or vanilla cake mix also works well. Even lemon cake mix can be a tasty twist.

Can I stir the ingredients together?

No. Dump cakes are meant to be layered without mixing, which creates the signature texture.

How can I avoid dry patches in the topping?

Make sure the butter covers the entire surface of the cake mix. Use more butter if needed.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes. Layer the ingredients the same way and cook on high for 2–2.5 hours, or until bubbly and set.

Is this dessert freezer-friendly?

Yes. After cooling, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar?

If using pie filling, it’s already sweetened, so consider using fresh berries for more control over sweetness.

What can I serve with blueberry dump cake?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Do I need to peel the blueberries?

No peeling needed—just rinse fresh berries or thaw frozen ones before using.

Conclusion

Blueberry Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a fast sweet fix, this no-mix, all-dump recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its juicy berries, buttery topping, and nearly effortless prep, it’s comfort food baking at its best.