Name: Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz chocolate cake mix); 4 cups cherries (fresh, canned, or a mix); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (if using fresh cherries); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); Vanilla ice cream; Chocolate syrup; Whipped cream; Shaved chocolate

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Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m sharing a delightfully easy Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, the perfect Summer Dessert! This fuss-free treat combines rich chocolate cake mix with juicy cherries and melted butter for a moist, flavorful cake that’s ready in under an hour. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as a quick sweet bite, this dessert brings joy with minimal effort, making it ideal for summer gatherings or cozy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

I love this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake because it’s the ultimate no-stress Summer Dessert. With just a few ingredients, it delivers a perfect balance of sweet-tart cherries and decadent chocolate. The “dump and bake” method means no mixing bowls or complicated steps—just layer, bake, and enjoy. It’s versatile enough for casual picnics or special occasions, and the warm, gooey texture pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream. Plus, it’s ready in about 45 minutes, leaving you more time to savor the moment!

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake (serves 8):

4 cups fresh or canned cherries (pitted if fresh, drained if canned)
¼ cup granulated sugar (optional, for fresh cherries)
1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving

Ingredient Tips:

Cherries: Fresh cherries shine in summer for this Summer Dessert; canned cherries work year-round—just drain well to avoid excess moisture.
Sugar: Add sugar for fresh cherries to enhance juiciness; skip it for canned cherries if they’re syrup-packed.
Cake Mix: Any chocolate cake mix works; choose a brand you love for rich flavor.
Butter: Melted butter creates a crisp, golden topping; ensure it’s evenly drizzled for the best texture.
Toppings: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake.

Directions for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Preheat the Oven

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Layer the Cherries

I spread 4 cups of pitted fresh or drained canned cherries evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. If using fresh cherries, I sprinkle ¼ cup sugar over them to draw out their juices.

Add the Cake Mix

I pour the entire 15.25 oz box of chocolate cake mix over the cherries, spreading it evenly with a spoon to cover the fruit completely.

Drizzle the Butter

I melt ½ cup of butter and drizzle it evenly over the dry cake mix, ensuring every area is coated to avoid dry spots. I gently press the mix with a spoon to help the butter soak in.

Bake the Cake

I bake the Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is crisp and bubbly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few crumbs, not wet batter.

Cool and Serve

I let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes to set, then serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a perfect Summer Dessert.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 4g protein, 15g fat, 3g fiber

Variations for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

I enjoy tweaking this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake to suit different moods. Here are some ideas:

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds over the cake mix before baking for added texture.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherries for a warm, cozy flavor.
Double Chocolate: Mix ½ cup chocolate chips into the cake mix for an extra decadent Summer Dessert.
Fruit Mix: Combine cherries with canned pineapple or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Healthier Swap: Use a reduced-sugar cake mix or replace half the butter with applesauce for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

I store leftover Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to revive the gooey texture. It’s delicious cold, too, straight from the fridge for a quick sweet treat!

FAQs About Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Can I use fresh cherries for Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake?
Yes, fresh cherries are perfect, especially for a Summer Dessert; just pit them and add a bit of sugar.

Do I need to mix the ingredients?
No, the beauty of this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is the “dump” method—just layer and bake!

Can I use canned cherries?
Absolutely, drain them well to avoid a soggy cake; no extra sugar is needed if they’re in syrup.

What if my cake mix is dry after baking?
Ensure the melted butter is drizzled evenly; press lightly to help it soak into the mix.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, bake it a day ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving for a quick Summer Dessert.

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Conclusion

This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a simple yet irresistible Summer Dessert that brings big flavor with minimal effort. I love how it transforms a few pantry staples into a warm, gooey treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to delight. Give it a try, share your creations on social media, and explore more delicious recipes at Food and Tips!