Are you craving a decadent dessert but short on time and baking skills? Look no further! This Cherry Chocolate Dump Cake is the ultimate answer for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious treat. It’s the perfect homemade dessert for busy weeknights, unexpected guests, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth. Forget complicated recipes and messy kitchens; this dump cake requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. Get ready to impress everyone with this simple yet stunning dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (18.25 ounce) package chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Instructions:
Getting Started:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake doesn't stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Assembling the Cake:
- Pour the entire can of cherry pie filling evenly into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out to create an even layer.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts (if using) over the cherry filling. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the sweetness of the cherries and chocolate.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, melted butter, milk, and eggs until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Pour the batter evenly over the cherry filling and nuts. Don't worry about spreading it perfectly; the baking process will level it out.
Baking and Serving:
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on it during the last 5-10 minutes. Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This allows the cake to set up a bit and makes it easier to cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance, if desired. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer chocolate flavor: Use a dark chocolate cake mix or add a tablespoon or two of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter.
- Add some spice: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled over the cherry filling adds warmth and complexity.
- Use different fruit: This dump cake recipe works well with other pie fillings, like blueberry or apple.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always check the nutrition labels of individual ingredients for the most accurate data.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are surprisingly delicious and satisfying. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a simple yet impressive dessert. Enjoy this healthy meal alternative for a guilt-free indulgence! The best recipes are often the simplest, and this cherry chocolate dump cake is a perfect testament to that.