3 Ingredient Dump Cake is the perfect nostalgic dessert—easy, fuss-free, and always a hit at gatherings. Using only dry cake mix, canned pie filling, and slices of cold butter, this comforting dessert bakes into a warm, bubbling masterpiece with a perfectly crisp topping—all in less than an hour. Whether you’re new to baking or need a last-minute crowd-pleaser, this simple recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
What This Post Includes
The Story & Intro
A Sweet Memory From My Grandmother’s Kitchen
It was a chilly Saturday morning when I first made a 3 ingredient dump cake in my grandmother’s old enamel baking dish. She had a gift for transforming the simplest ingredients into something unforgettable. I remember watching her line up the cans of cherry filling, the box of cake mix, and a stick of cold butter on the counter, her hands moving with confidence and joy. As the dessert baked, the scent of bubbling fruit and sweet cake filled every corner of the kitchen.
Today, this recipe lives on in my home—and every time I make it, I’m reminded how food connects us to the people we love. Whether you’re just getting started in the kitchen or need something fast for guests, this cake is my go-to. It doesn’t require precision or prep. It just works.
Why This Dump Cake Recipe Always Works?
What makes a dump cake recipe special is how effortlessly it delivers on taste and comfort. You don’t need a mixer, a bowl, or even much time. Just layer the ingredients in a baking pan and let the oven take care of the rest. No stirring, no stress—just rich, golden topping and warm, gooey filling.
Over the years, I’ve made countless versions—apple, peach, blueberry—and the formula is always the same: cake mix and pie filling meet butter in the easiest dessert you’ll ever bake. It’s a favorite after savory meals like 3 ingredient bagels, or even as a weekend treat when I’m keeping meals light with a 3 ingredient pink salt recipe for weight loss.
If you love simple recipes that feel like a warm hug, this one’s for you.
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3 Ingredient Dump Cake: The Easiest Nostalgic Dessert Ever
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This 3 ingredient dump cake is the easiest dessert you’ll ever make. Just cherry pie filling, cake mix, and butter come together to create a bubbly, golden-topped treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cans (42 oz) cherry pie filling
1 box (18.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the pan.
4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the filling, covering it completely.
5. Slice the cold butter very thinly and distribute evenly over the cake mix.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Make sure to slice the butter thinly to ensure even coverage and proper melting.
Don’t mix the cake mix with the filling—layering is key for texture.
Try different pie fillings like peach, apple, or blueberry.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for a month.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why 3 Ingredients Only?
Simplicity That Saves Time
The brilliance of a 3 ingredient dump cake lies in its effortless design. You don’t need measuring cups, mixing bowls, or hours in the kitchen. With just a can (or two) of fruit filling, a box of cake mix, and a few slices of butter, you’re set. This kind of recipe gives you more time to spend with your guests—or more time for yourself. It’s ideal for beginners, busy parents, or anyone who wants dessert without the drama.
Why 3 Ingredient Dump Cake Actually Works Like Magic?
The chemistry of this cake is where the magic really happens. When baked, the butter melts through the dry cake mix, turning it into a rich, crumbly topping. Meanwhile, the fruit filling underneath bubbles up, thickens slightly, and soaks into just enough of the mix to bind it all together. You end up with a golden, crisp top and a soft, juicy base—no stirring needed.
The flavor and texture can shift depending on the combo you choose. Want an apple dump cake recipe twist? Use spiced pie filling and white cake mix. Prefer cherry or peach? It’s just as easy. This kind of no-fail layering makes it perfect for experimenting—or for sticking with the comforting original.
3 Ingredient Dump Cake List
The Only Three You’ll Need
To make this classic 3 ingredient dump cake, all you need are pantry and fridge staples you probably already have on hand:
- 2 cans (total 42 oz) of pie filling – Cherry is a timeless favorite, but this recipe works beautifully with apple, peach, or blueberry too. Look for high-quality fillings with real fruit for best flavor.
- 1 box (18.25 oz) of yellow or white cake mix – Yellow cake mix gives a rich, buttery flavor, while white cake mix lets the fruit shine. Choose what fits your mood—or your pantry.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold – Slice it very thin to get even coverage over the dry cake mix. The cold butter melts slowly, creating that crisp, golden crust you’re after.
This simple combination of cake mix, pie filling, and butter forms the foundation for countless dump cake flavors and styles. It’s easy to turn this into a cake mix apple cake or even a peach cobbler-style dessert with one simple switch. No need for eggs, oil, or water.
Smart Tips & Swaps to Try
Want to add your own spin? Here are some simple ways to personalize your dump cake without complicating it:
- Add flavorings – A touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest mixed into the filling adds depth without extra effort.
- Balance the butter – Too much and the top can feel greasy; too little and the mix stays dry. The sweet spot is thinly sliced butter, spread evenly.
- Make it seasonal – Use pumpkin pie filling in the fall, or try a combo like cherry filling with chocolate cake mix for a black forest twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Quick Prep for Big Flavor
The beauty of a 3 ingredient dump cake is that prep time is practically zero. Still, a little organization makes everything smoother. Before you start, gather your ingredients, make sure the butter is cold, and preheat your oven. Having everything in place means less stress—and a perfect bake.
Here’s how to get it done:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
- Dump the pie filling into the pan. Spread it evenly to form a fruit base. Whether you’re using cherry, apple, or peach, make sure it covers the bottom.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix directly on top. Don’t stir it in—just let it sit as a blanket over the fruit. Even coverage ensures a consistent texture.
- Slice the cold butter very thinly. Distribute the slices over the entire surface of the cake mix. They should overlap slightly so the butter melts into every corner.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the filling should bubble up along the edges. If it’s not browning evenly, give it a few more minutes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Once baked, let your dump cake cool slightly before serving. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to a month.
To reheat, pop it into a warm oven or microwave until it’s just heated through. The crisp topping softens a little but still tastes incredible. It’s like a fruit crisp and cake all in one bite.
Craving something savory before dessert? Pair it with simple mains like 3 ingredient bagels—then wrap things up with this easy, cozy finish.
Variations of Dump Cake Recipe
Fruit & Cake Mix Combos to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic 3 ingredient dump cake, it’s fun to mix and match fillings and cake mixes for totally new flavor profiles. Here are some popular pairings that always get rave reviews:
- Apple filling + spice cake mix – Like a shortcut to apple crisp, warm and comforting. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel before serving.
- Peach filling + yellow cake mix – A southern-inspired combo that tastes like summer. For added crunch, sprinkle a few chopped pecans on top before baking.
- Cherry filling + chocolate cake mix – A Black Forest twist with rich, fudgy results. Delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Blueberry filling + lemon cake mix – Bright and tart, perfect for brunch or spring gatherings.
Even swapping in different brands of filling can change the taste—look for options with less sugar or more fruit if you want to adjust the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Make It Yours
Feel like adding a little flair? Try these optional tweaks:
- Add ½ teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract to the fruit layer for more depth.
- Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen berries with the canned filling.
- Want a crispier top? Add a few tablespoons of oats or chopped nuts over the cake mix before adding butter.
Storage & Serving Tips
How to Keep It Fresh
Once your 3 ingredient dump cake has cooled, it’s best to store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer the cake into an airtight container. It’ll keep well for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge and warm it slightly in the oven or microwave.
If the topping softens after refrigeration, a few minutes under the broiler can restore a bit of the original crispness.
Best Ways to Serve 3 Ingredient Dump Cake
This dessert is delicious straight from the oven, but there are a few easy ways to elevate it:
- Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top for a classic finish.
- Whip up some fresh cream with a touch of almond extract to match a cherry version.
- For an apple variation, drizzle warm caramel sauce on top—it turns it into a decadent twist on apple crisp with cake mix.
Since this cake already has rich fruit and sweet topping, it pairs beautifully with lighter main dishes or quick savory snacks, like 3 ingredient bagels. It’s versatile enough to serve at potlucks, holidays, or even just a casual weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
Making a 3 ingredient dump cake is one of the easiest ways to bring warmth and flavor to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a single box of cake mix, a few cans of fruit filling, and some butter, you can create a cozy, throwback dessert that’s incredibly easy and always a hit with any crowd. Whether you’re leaning on a dump cake recipe handed down through generations or experimenting with new combos, this treat delivers every single time.
You can mix and match flavors like apple dump cake recipe for fall or go bold with cherry and chocolate. And if you’ve ever made an apple crisp with cake mix, you already know how well this shortcut method works. The results are rich, fruity, and topped with a golden, buttery crunch.
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a 3 ingredient dump cake—just like those other reliable pantry staples, from cake mix and pie filling blends to quick, wholesome options like 3 ingredient butter cookies with egg or a 3 ingredient pink salt recipe for weight loss. It’s all about good food, made easy.
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FAQs
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The biggest mistake is mixing the ingredients together. For the best results, keep the layers separate—spread the fruit filling first, then evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix, and finally top with thin slices of butter. This layering creates the signature texture: crisp topping, soft cake, and gooey fruit.
What do I need for a dump cake?
You only need three ingredients: a box of cake mix (yellow or white), two cans of pie filling (like cherry or apple), and cold butter. That’s it! No eggs, oil, or milk required.
What is a 3 ingredient peach dump cake?
It’s the same easy process using peach pie filling instead of cherry or apple. Pair it with yellow cake mix and butter for a sunny, summery dessert that’s ready in under an hour.
Can I use brownie mix for dump cake?
You can, but keep in mind that brownie mix creates a denser, fudgier texture. It pairs well with cherry or raspberry filling for a rich twist. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly since brownie mix behaves differently than cake mix.
How do you make a strawberry dump cake?
Simply replace the fruit filling with strawberry pie filling and use white or yellow cake mix. A touch of vanilla or lemon zest enhances the flavor, and it’s perfect with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
What ingredients are in dump cake?
At its core, a dump cake recipe includes pie filling, cake mix, and butter. That trio creates layers of flavor and texture without the need for mixing or complicated steps.