Description
This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion. Combining the tartness of cherry pie filling with rich semisweet chocolate chips and a moist chocolate cake topping, this recipe delivers a luscious, decadent treat with minimal effort. The crunchy pecan halves add texture, while the almond extract enhances the berry-chocolate flavor. Ready in under an hour, it’s an easy bake for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking for a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
Topping
- 1 package chocolate cake mix (regular size)
- 3/4 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Mix the cherry-chocolate base: In a medium bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling, semisweet chocolate chips, and almond extract until well combined, forming the flavorful base for the cake.
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish. Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture evenly into the dish, spreading it thoroughly to all corners and sides.
- Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the cherry filling, creating an even layer atop the base. Then scatter the pecan halves evenly over the dry cake mix for added crunch and flavor.
- Pour on the butter: Using a liquid measuring cup with a spout for control, evenly drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the entire surface, focusing on hydrating the dry cake mix to ensure a moist, tender topping.
- Bake the dump cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the cake topping is set and golden, and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve warm: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly, then serve warm for the best combination of gooey filling and cakey topping. Enjoy as is or with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Using a liquid measuring cup with a spout makes drizzling the melted butter easier and more even.
- This dump cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with another topping like coconut flakes.
- Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American