We’ve all had those moments when we crave a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert and our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe delivers just that. This easy twist on a classic combines everyday ingredients for a gooey treat that’s perfect for camping trips or cozy evenings at home.
What makes it special is the Dutch oven’s magic which locks in flavors and creates a irresistible golden top. We’re excited to share how this no-fuss method brings fun back to baking so you can enjoy more time with loved ones.
Ingredients
In our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe, we rely on a handful of everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to create that irresistible gooey texture and golden top. Let’s break down what you’ll need, organized by the order of use for seamless preparation.
Base Layer Ingredients
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) of cherry pie filling: Use these as the foundation; make sure they’re at room temperature for even layering.
- 1 can (20 ounces) of crushed pineapple, drained: Adds a tropical twist; drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.
Dry Mix Layer
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) of yellow cake mix: Opt for a standard brand; keep it dry and unflavored to let the fruit shine through as the primary flavor.
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, sliced: Chilled and thinly sliced for even melting and that signature crispy top; this is key for Dutch oven baking.
- 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Toast them lightly beforehand if you prefer a nuttier depth, adding about 10-15 minutes of prep time for enhanced flavor.
This selection keeps things simple yet effective, aligning with our focus on minimal effort for maximum taste in a Dutch oven setting. If you’re tracking nutritional stats, here’s a quick overview based on standard servings:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of recipe) | Daily Value % |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 16% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
Remember, these values can vary by brand—always check labels for precision.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe to life with minimal fuss, we rely on a few key pieces of equipment that enhance the baking process, especially when using a Dutch oven for that perfect golden crust and even heat distribution. This setup keeps preparation straightforward, whether we’re cooking over a campfire or in our kitchen.
Here’s a curated list of the essential equipment, organized by category for easy reference:
- Dutch Oven: We recommend a 10- to 12-inch cast-iron Dutch oven with a lid, as it retains heat exceptionally well and allows for that signature crispy top on our dump cake.
- Mixing Bowl: A large, heat-resistant bowl (at least 2 quarts) to combine and layer ingredients without mess.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A sturdy, heat-safe utensil for gently stirring or spreading layers, ensuring even distribution of our cherry pie filling and cake mix.
- Can Opener: If using canned fruits like crushed pineapple, this tool makes quick work of opening them efficiently.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing unsalted butter into even pieces—aim for 1/4-inch slices to melt uniformly over the topping.
- Oven Mitts or Heatproof Gloves: Essential for safely handling the hot Dutch oven, preventing burns during transfer or serving.
- Heat Source: Depending on the setting, this could be a campfire, grill, or conventional oven preheated to 350°F for optimal baking results.
For quick reference, here’s a table comparing the key equipment specifications to help you select the right items based on common needs:
| Equipment Item | Recommended Size/Type | Primary Use in Recipe | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dutch Oven | 10-12 inches, cast-iron | Baking the entire cake | Provides even heat for a gooey, golden finish |
| Mixing Bowl | At least 2 quarts | Layering ingredients | Ensures no spills and easy mixing |
| Spatula or Wooden Spoon | Heat-safe material | Spreading layers | Promotes uniform cooking without damaging the cake mix |
| Can Opener | Manual or electric | Opening cans | Saves time and keeps prep simple |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Sharp chef’s knife, standard board | Slicing butter | Delivers precise cuts for even melting |
| Oven Mitts | Insulated, full-hand coverage | Handling hot equipment | Protects us from burns for safe serving |
With this equipment in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from preparing ingredients to the actual baking steps, making our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe an effortless delight.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our simple ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our irresistible Dump Cake in a Dutch oven. Follow these for a perfectly golden and gooey dessert every time.
Prepare the Dutch Oven
Before we begin layering, it’s crucial to set up our Dutch oven properly for even heat distribution and easy release. Start by selecting a 10- to 12-inch cast-iron Dutch oven as recommended earlier. Lightly grease the inside with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure the cake releases effortlessly.
Next, if baking outdoors place the Dutch oven on a stable heat source like coals or a camp stove. For indoor use position it in a preheated conventional oven at 350°F. Allow the Dutch oven to warm up for 5 minutes so our cake bakes uniformly and develops that crispy golden top we love.
Layer the Ingredients
With our Dutch oven prepped let’s build the layers of our Dump Cake for maximum flavor and texture. Begin by spreading one 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the Dutch oven using a spatula for a smooth base that creates a juicy foundation.
Add one 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple (drained) over the cherry layer ensuring full coverage for a tangy contrast. Sprinkle an entire 15.25-ounce box of yellow cake mix uniformly on top without mixing to form a dry barrier that will turn into a fluffy topping. Finally dot the surface with 1/2 cup of sliced unsalted butter placed in a grid pattern and sprinkle 1/2 cup of optional chopped nuts like pecans for added crunch. This layering technique locks in moisture and delivers that irresistibly gooey center with a buttery finish.
Bake the Cake
Now that our ingredients are layered it’s time to bake our Dump Cake to perfection in the Dutch oven. If using an outdoor setup arrange 15 to 20 hot coals on the lid and 10 under the base for even cooking or place in a preheated 350°F oven if indoors.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes rotating the Dutch oven every 15 minutes for uniform heat exposure until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean or with minimal residue indicating our cake is moist yet set. Once done remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes to enhance those rich fruity aromas before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
We understand that life gets busy, so our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe is perfect for preparing in advance to minimize stress while maximizing flavor. By planning ahead, we can ensure a gooey, golden dessert ready to bake or serve with minimal effort, whether we’re camping or hosting at home.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
To keep things simple and efficient, we recommend prepping your ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld slightly, enhancing the rich, fruity base of the cake.
- Cherry Pie Filling and Crushed Pineapple: Open and drain the cans if needed, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents any last-minute fumbling and keeps the fruits fresh for that burst of tart sweetness.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Measure out the exact amount into a sealed bag or container at room temperature. Avoid exposure to moisture to maintain its light, fluffy texture when baked.
- Butter and Nuts: Slice the unsalted butter and chop any optional nuts ahead of time. Wrap them tightly and refrigerate; this makes layering quicker and ensures the butter melts evenly for a crispy, golden top.
Assembling the Cake in Advance
For even more convenience, we can fully assemble the dump cake up to 8 hours before baking. This works especially well for outdoor adventures, as it saves time at the campsite.
- Start by greasing your Dutch oven as outlined in the preparation steps.
- Layer the ingredients in the order specified: first the cherry pie filling, then crushed pineapple, followed by the yellow cake mix, and top with sliced butter.
- Cover and refrigerate the assembled Dutch oven. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and proceed with the baking instructions for that irresistibly moist and caramelized result.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If we’ve baked extras or want to prepare a larger batch, proper storage is key to preserving the warm, comforting essence of our Dump Cake.
| Make-Ahead Option | Time Frame | Storage Method | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unbaked Assembled Cake | Up to 8 hours | Refrigerate in the covered Dutch oven | Bake as per recipe; add 5-10 minutes to account for chilling. |
| Baked Cake | Up to 3 days | Cover tightly and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container | Reheat in a Dutch oven over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or in a conventional oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through and gooey again. |
By following these tips, we make our Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe even more versatile, ensuring it’s always a hit without the rush.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe and how it brings people together with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for creating memorable moments whether we’re camping or relaxing at home.
By keeping things straightforward, we’ve made it easy to enjoy a delicious, golden treat that impresses every time. Give it a try on your next adventure and see how it adds joy to our gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe?
A Dump Cake Dutch Oven Recipe is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert made by layering ingredients like cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, yellow cake mix, and butter in a Dutch oven. It’s ideal for camping or home baking, as the Dutch oven enhances flavors and creates a gooey, golden top with minimal effort, allowing more time with family and friends.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple for the base, yellow cake mix for the dry layer, sliced unsalted butter for the topping, and optional chopped nuts. This combination uses everyday items for a tasty treat. Each serving provides about 300-400 calories, 15-20g fat, 50-60g carbs, and 2-4g protein, though values vary by brand.
How do I prepare the Dutch oven for this recipe?
Grease a 10- to 12-inch cast-iron Dutch oven to prevent sticking, then preheat it for even heat distribution. Layer ingredients starting with cherry pie filling, followed by crushed pineapple, yellow cake mix, and butter. Use tools like a mixing bowl, spatula, and oven mitts for safe handling, ensuring a crispy top and flavorful result.
Can I make this Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by storing cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple in airtight containers, measuring cake mix, and slicing butter and nuts. You can even assemble the cake up to 8 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy schedules or outdoor trips without sacrificing taste.
How should I store and reheat the baked Dump Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or use the microwave for 1-2 minutes per slice. This keeps the cake moist and delicious for later enjoyment, whether at home or on adventures.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor cooking?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for camping since it uses a Dutch oven for even heat and a golden finish over coals or a campfire. The simple layering method minimizes prep, making it easy to bake outdoors while maximizing flavor and family time.
What are the nutritional facts for this Dump Cake?
Each serving has approximately 300-400 calories, 15-20g of fat, 50-60g of carbohydrates, and 2-4g of protein. These values can vary based on brands and portion sizes, so adjust for dietary needs. It’s a tasty treat, but enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.