Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious dessert? The perfect answer is a classic Blueberry Dump Cake. Sweet blueberries nestled under golden, buttery cake nuggets make this dessert irresistible. With minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite in American kitchens.

What Makes Dump Cakes So Easy

Dump cakes flip traditional baking on its head. Forget about mixing, measuring, or complex techniques—instead, you simply layer everything in a dish and bake. But don’t be fooled by the simplicity; this dessert delivers big on flavor. The juicy blueberries create a sweet and tangy base, while the buttery cake mix transforms into a crisp, golden crust.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or craving a sweet treat at home, Blueberry Dump Cake fits the bill. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and watch it disappear faster than you can say, “Seconds, please!”

Essential Ingredients for Blueberry Dump Cake Success

Blueberry Dump Cake: It’s a dish simple in all its beauty, but the ingredients certainly count. The right combination will yield the perfectly balanced texture and flavor for a sinfully delicious dessert. This is what you’ll need- and how to customize your creation:

Key Ingredients

1. Blueberry Pie Filling (2 cans, 21 ounces each)
   • The foundation of this recipe, blueberry pie filling, adds sweetness and a rich, fruity base.
   • Tip: For added texture and freshness, toss 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
2. Yellow Cake Mix (1 box)
   • This pantry staple forms the golden, crumbly topping. Its slight sweetness perfectly complements the tartness of the blueberries.
   • Alternatives: Try white cake mix for a milder flavor or lemon cake mix for a zesty twist.
3. Butter (1/2 cup, melted)
   • Butter is essential for that buttery, crisp crust. It seeps into the cake mix as it bakes, creating a perfectly textured topping.
   • Pro Tip: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

1. Fresh Blueberries
   • Sprinkling 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries over the pie filling before adding the cake mix adds an extra layer of freshness.
2. Lemon Zest
   • A teaspoon of lemon zest brightens the dessert and enhances the natural tartness of the blueberries.
3. Nuts
   • Chopped pecans or sliced almonds sprinkled on the cake mix adds a crunchy texture.
4. Spices
   • A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake mix gives the dessert a warm, cozy flavor profile.

Substitutions and Dietary Adaptations

1. Gluten-Free Version
   • Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this dessert celiac-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
2. Vegan Option
   • Replace the butter with a vegan alternative, such as coconut oil or plant-based butter. Be sure to use a vegan cake mix and pie filling.

Why These Ingredients Work Together

The combination of sweet, tangy blueberries and buttery cake mix is the hallmark of a dump cake. As the butter melts, it mixes with the cake mix, forming a crisp topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy filling below. Optional add-ins like nuts or fresh fruit add layers of flavor and texture, taking the dessert to the next level.

Next Up: Ready to bake? In the next section, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Blueberry Dump Cake, with tips for achieving a golden, crumbly topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Blueberry Dump Cake

Making a Blueberry Dump Cake is at once facile and gratifying. You can have a dessert that is bound to impress others in mere steps and barely any cleanup. Let’s look at the procedure:

Step1: Preheat Your Oven

• Temperature: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
• Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step2: Assemble the Blueberry Layer

1. Spread the Filling:
   • Open the two cans of blueberry pie filling and pour them into the prepared dish.
   • Use a spoon or spatula to spread the filling evenly, ensuring it covers the bottom of the dish.
2. Optional Fresh Blueberries:
   • If desired, sprinkle 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries over the pie filling for added texture and flavor.

Step3: Add the Cake Mix

1. Even Distribution:
   • Open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the blueberry layer.
   • Avoid clumping by gently shaking the box as you pour.
2. Pro Tip:
   • Do not mix the cake mix with the filling—keeping the layers intact is key to the dump cake’s texture.

Step4: Drizzle the Butter

1. Melt the Butter:
   • Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in the microwave or stovetop.
   • Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Aim to cover as much surface as possible for an evenly golden crust.
2. If Needed:
   • Use a spoon to spread the butter into dry spots, or drizzle with vegetable oil to ensure coverage.

Step5: Bake

• Time: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.
• Indicators of Doneness:
  • The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
  • The filling will be bubbling up around the edges of the dish.
• Adjustments: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes of baking.

Step6: Cool and Serve

1. Cooling:
   • After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly.
2. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy topping pairs beautifully with the warm, fruity filling.
3. Storage:
   • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for a quick treat.

Make Your Blueberry Dump Cake Your Own

One of the best things about a dump cake is how flexible it can be. While the classic blueberry version is always a crowd-pleaser, there are so many fun ways to put your own spin on it. However, if you are in the experimenting mode of trying new combinations in an effort to make things crunchier, add a flavor to make things new, or perhaps suitability with a specific diet, many of these ideas will ignite your creativity to take that next bake to new delicious heights.

Swap the Fruit Base

The blueberry filling is delicious, but if you’re in the mood for something different, consider these alternatives:

• Peach Dump Cake: Use peach pie filling for a sunny, summery vibe. Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
• Cherry Dump Cake: Opt for cherry pie filling and pair it with chocolate cake mix for a black forest twist.
• Apple Dump Cake: Combine apple pie filling with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy fall dessert.
• Mixed Berry: Blend blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry pie fillings for a medley of fruity flavors.

Experiment with Cake Mix Flavors

Yellow cake mix is classic, but other flavors can offer exciting new tastes:

• White Cake Mix: Subtle and less sweet, it lets the fruit flavor shine.
• Lemon Cake Mix: Adds a tangy brightness that complements blueberries perfectly.
• Spice Cake Mix: Ideal for apple or peach fillings, with built-in warm spices.

Add Toppings for Extra Texture

Elevate your dump cake by incorporating crunchy or sweet toppings:

• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds over the cake mix for a nutty crunch.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut adds a tropical flair.
• Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: Combine these with the cake mix before baking for a caramelized top.

Create a Boozy Twist

For adult gatherings, a splash of alcohol can add depth to your dessert:

• Amaretto: Stir a tablespoon into the blueberry filling for a nutty, almond flavor.
• Bourbon or Whiskey: Add a smoky caramel note to your fruity base.
• Grand Marnier: A citrusy liqueur that pairs beautifully with blueberries.

Dietary Modifications

If you have specific dietary needs, this dessert is easy to adapt:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and double-check that your pie filling is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or margarine.
• Low-Sugar: Use no-sugar-added pie filling and a sugar-free cake mix to reduce the sweetness.

Make Individual Servings

Bake your dump cake in ramekins or individual oven-safe dishes for a fun presentation. This is perfect for portion control and makes serving easier for dinner parties.

Why Customize?

A personal touch to the recipe makes it very special and diversifies it for different occasions and moods. You can serve it at a family barbecue, during a holiday time celebration, or for a cozy night in – it will not fail to make your blueberry dump cake something exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This Blueberry Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious treat. With its juicy blueberry base and irresistible buttery golden topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The recipe’s simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings.

What makes this dessert truly special is its versatility. Whether you stick to the classic version or try creative variations, you’ll enjoy a delightful result every time. For more dessert inspiration, check out our Mini Pecan Pies or indulge in our Chocolate Nut Brownies for an extra touch of sweetness.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your friends and family with this irresistible dessert. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures—this Blueberry Dump Cake is too good to keep to yourself!

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Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe

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• Author: Elyse
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 1 9×13-inch dessert 1x

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Description

 

This Blueberry Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Sweet, juicy blueberries form a luscious base, while a golden, buttery cake topping adds the perfect crunch. With minimal prep and just a few pantry staples, it’s no wonder this dessert is a family favorite. Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for a treat no one can resist!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cans (21 ounces each) blueberry pie filling
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (optional)
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Optional toppings:
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
• Pour the blueberry pie filling into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries on top.
• Open the yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the blueberry layer, avoiding clumps.
• Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.
• Optional: Add your choice of toppings, such as nuts, lemon zest, or cinnamon, for extra flavor and texture.
• Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges.
• Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.

• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Sweet Sensations
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 servings