Indulge in the sweet essence of summer with our incredibly simple Peach Dump Cake. Crafted with just a few pantry staples like yellow cake mix, luscious peach pie filling, a hint of warm cinnamon, and rich butter, this dessert promises maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Effortlessly Delicious: The Ultimate Peach Dump Cake Recipe
When the craving for a warm, sweet, and comforting dessert strikes, but time is of the essence, a dump cake emerges as the perfect solution. And when that dessert features the sun-kissed flavor of peaches, it becomes an irresistible treat. Our Peach Dump Cake recipe is designed for ease and pure enjoyment, delivering a delightful balance of gooey fruit, tender cake, and a satisfying golden-brown crust, all ready in under an hour. Forget the lengthy prep work, the multiple mixing bowls, and the endless cleanup – this recipe simplifies baking, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned home cooks.
What Exactly is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a wonderfully straightforward dessert that lives up to its name: you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and bake! There’s no fancy mixing, no creaming of butter and sugar, and often no need for separate bowls. Typically, it involves a fruit base (canned pie filling or fresh fruit), a dry cake mix sprinkled over the top, and melted or sliced butter that seeps through the cake mix as it bakes, creating a moist, crumbly, and cake-like topping. The magic of a dump cake lies in its effortless preparation and the delightful textures it yields, combining a tender fruit layer with a buttery, golden crust. It’s a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special and satisfying.
Why This Peach Dump Cake is Your New Go-To Dessert
This Peach Dump Cake isn’t just easy; it’s a celebration of convenience and flavor. Here’s why it’s destined to become a regular in your dessert rotation:
- Minimal Ingredients: With only five core ingredients, this recipe keeps things refreshingly simple. You likely have most of them in your pantry already, making it perfect for impromptu baking sessions.
- Effortless Preparation: The “dump and bake” method means no complex steps or specialized equipment. Just layer your ingredients and let the oven do the work. This frees up your time to enjoy other activities or simply relax while a delicious aroma fills your kitchen.
- Speedy Results: From start to finish, this cake is ready in under an hour. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you need a quick dessert fix without the fuss.
- Versatile for All Seasons: While peaches evoke summer, using canned peach pie filling means you can enjoy this delightful dessert any time of the year. It’s a taste of sunshine even in the colder months.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a nutty crunch or a smooth, fruit-forward experience, this recipe is adaptable. Add walnuts, pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch.
We love this. Made it for my wife and she gave two big thumbs up! Perfect when peaches aren’t in season but you’re craving a peach dessert!
– Bill
Frequently Asked Questions About Peach Dump Cake
Yes, absolutely! Dump cakes are wonderfully adaptable to slow cookers. To make this Peach Dump Cake in your crock pot, simply use the same ingredients as listed in this recipe. Then, follow the general guidelines for crock pot dump cakes. You’ll typically layer the ingredients in a similar fashion – peach pie filling first, then cake mix, followed by butter slices. Cook on low for about 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, until the cake mix layer is cooked through and lightly golden. For specific crock pot instructions, you can refer to dedicated crock pot dump cake recipes like our Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake, applying similar cooking times and methods.
No peach pie filling? No problem! You have a couple of excellent alternatives. The simplest is to use two large cans of sliced peaches (about 15-16 ounces each), drained. You can opt for peaches in juice for a less sweet result, or peaches in light syrup for a slightly richer flavor profile. Keep in mind that using plain canned peaches will result in a less “gooey” or thick fruit layer compared to pie filling, as pie filling contains thickeners. However, it will still yield a delicious, peachy dessert with a wonderful cake topping. You could also lightly mash some of the canned peaches to release more juice and create a slightly saucier base.
Using fresh peaches is an excellent idea, especially when they are in season and at their peak ripeness! For this recipe, you’ll need approximately 6 cups of fresh, sliced peaches, which usually translates to about 6-8 medium-sized peaches, depending on their size. Simply peel and slice your fresh peaches, then spread them evenly in your baking dish before topping with the cake mix and butter. While fresh peaches will offer a brighter, more natural peach flavor, similar to canned peaches in juice, they won’t create the same thick, gooey filling as canned pie filling. If you desire a thicker fruit layer with fresh peaches, you could lightly toss them with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before baking, or consider making your own homemade peach pie filling from scratch, which allows you to control the sweetness and thickness.
Don’t have yellow cake mix on hand? You have several fantastic options to ensure your dump cake dreams still come true! For boxed cake mixes, a white cake mix, vanilla cake mix, or even a spice cake mix would work beautifully and complement the peaches well. If you’re looking to branch out, a pineapple cake mix would also provide a delightful tropical twist. Alternatively, if you prefer to bake from scratch, you can always make your own Homemade Yellow Cake Mix, which gives you complete control over the ingredients. For a slightly different texture, two packets of cinnamon sugar muffin mix can be a surprisingly delicious substitute, creating a more biscuit-like topping. Even budget-friendly Jiffy cake mixes (you’d likely need two small boxes) can be used for a quick and economical option.
Yes, absolutely! While slicing cold butter and dotting it over the cake mix is a classic dump cake technique that helps create a wonderfully crumbly, buttery topping, melting the butter is a perfectly acceptable alternative. If you prefer, simply melt the butter and then drizzle it evenly over the dry cake mix. This method ensures that the butter is well-distributed, creating a consistently moist and rich topping. Both methods yield delicious results, so choose the one that is most convenient for you or aligns with your desired texture for the cake topping.
Storing your leftover Peach Dump Cake is simple, ensuring you can savor its deliciousness for days. Once the cake has completely cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can then refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. For best results and to maintain its delightful texture, reheat individual servings gently in the microwave or a warm oven. If you plan to store it for longer, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Essential Ingredients for Your Peach Dump Cake
This recipe relies on a handful of readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component is key:
- Peach Pie Filling: The star of the show! Canned peach pie filling provides a thick, sweet, and perfectly peachy base. Its pre-thickened consistency means a wonderfully gooey fruit layer without any extra effort. If you’re out, check our FAQ section above for alternative options like canned peaches or even homemade filling.
- Yellow Cake Mix: This is the “dump” part of the cake. A standard boxed yellow cake mix forms the crumbly, golden topping. While box sizes have varied over the years, this recipe is forgiving and works well with most standard-sized mixes available today (typically around 15.25 ounces). For a homemade touch, you can also use a yellow cake mix from our homemade yellow cake recipe.
- Ground Cinnamon: A warm, aromatic spice that beautifully complements the sweetness of the peaches. A generous sprinkle over the cake mix adds depth and a comforting flavor profile, enhancing the overall dessert experience. You can sprinkle it directly onto the peach filling or mix it with the cake mix for even distribution.
- Salted Butter: Key to achieving that delightful, golden-brown crust. We recommend using salted butter, as the slight saltiness provides a subtle contrast to the dessert’s sweetness, creating a more balanced flavor. Don’t worry, the small amount of salt (about a quarter teaspoon per stick) won’t make your cake taste salty; it just enhances all the other flavors.
- Chopped Walnuts (Optional): For those who love a textural contrast, chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. This ingredient is entirely optional, so feel free to omit it if you prefer a nut-free dessert or don’t have any on hand. Almonds could also be a delicious substitute.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Peach Dump Cake
Creating this peach dump cake is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these simple steps for a truly rewarding baking experience:
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with a nonstick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Lay the Peach Foundation
Evenly spread two 21-ounce cans of peach pie filling across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Distribute the filling so it forms a consistent layer from edge to edge. This will be the sweet, fruity heart of your dump cake.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Carefully and evenly sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix directly over the peach pie filling. Do not mix it in! The dry cake mix will absorb the moisture from the peaches and butter during baking, transforming into a delicious, cake-like topping.
Step 4: Season with Cinnamon
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the dry cake mix. This will infuse the topping with a warm, inviting spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
Step 5: Arrange the Butter
Slice your ¾ cup (1½ sticks) of cold salted butter into thin pats or cubes. Arrange these butter pieces evenly across the entire surface of the cake mix. As the butter melts, it will soak into the cake mix, creating that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Initial Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, the cake will begin to set, and the butter will melt, working its magic into the dry mix.
Step 7: Add Walnuts (If Using) & Final Bake
After 30 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and sprinkle the chopped walnuts (if you’re using them) evenly over the partially baked topping. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 15-25 minutes, or until the cake topping is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out clean, indicating it’s fully cooked.
Step 8: Serve and Savor
Once baked to perfection, remove the Peach Dump Cake from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This luscious dessert is truly best enjoyed warm, allowing the gooey peaches and buttery cake to shine. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an ultimate treat.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
The beauty of Peach Dump Cake lies not just in its simplicity but also in its versatility. While delicious on its own, here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Classic Toppings: A generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is the quintessential pairing, melting into the warm, fruity cake. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast.
- Extra Indulgence: Drizzle with caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a handful of fresh berries for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Seasonal Flair: In the fall, a touch of nutmeg or allspice can be added to the cake mix for a warmer, spiced peach flavor. For a brighter summer feel, serve with a side of mint sprigs.
- Fruit Combinations: While peach is king, consider swirling in some raspberry or blueberry pie filling with your peach filling for a mixed berry and peach delight.
- Nutty Crunch: If you love nuts, experiment with different varieties like toasted almonds or candied pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Craving More Easy & Delicious Recipes?
If you’re a fan of simple, comforting desserts, especially those featuring fruit or the “dump cake” method, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes to add to your repertoire:
- Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake
- Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Skillet Peach Cobbler
- Strawberry Dump Cake
- Cherry Dump Cake
- Blueberry Dump Cake
- Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls
- Fresh Peach Cake
- Peach Dumpling Bubble Up
- Peach Cobbler
- Peach Butter Swim Biscuits
- Peach Crisp
- Peaches and Cream Dessert
- Peach Yum Yum
- Peach Dumplings
Peach Dump Cake
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10 minutes
45 minutes
55 minutes
8 servings
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 (21 ounce) cans peach pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) salted butter
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread 2 cans of peach pie filling evenly into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top of the peaches evenly with the cake mix.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon on top of the cake mix.
- Top the cake evenly with the sliced butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Top the cake with the walnuts.
- Bake for an additional 15-25 minutes (or until the cake is golden brown).
Notes
- Please refer to our FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and the ingredient list above for alternative options and answers to common questions.
Dessert
American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 47g |
Protein: 4g |
Fat: 28g |
Sodium: 531mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 24g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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