Basic Dump Cake
A quick, smoky treat combining sweet pie filling and box cake mix into a gooey Dutch oven dessert—perfect for campfire gatherings or a sweet surprise at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 12‑inch Dutch oven with foil and place it over coals.
- Spread the pie filling evenly across the bottom of the Dutch oven.
- Sprinkle the box cake mix over the pie filling.
- Cut the margarine into thin slices and lay them over the cake mix.
- Close the Dutch oven and let it bake for 20 minutes.
- If the mixture is still bubbling, cover it for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, straight from the Dutch oven.
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Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a flavored cake mix like vanilla or lemon. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a more indulgent taste. If you want to make this a vegan recipe, use a plant-based butter and ensure your cake mix is dairy-free. Experiment with different pie fillings such as cherry or peach to customize the dessert!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious dump cake warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with Sweet 'N Sour Carrot Salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the cake cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Dump Cake contains roughly 267 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 30g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pie filling?
Absolutely! This dump cake recipe is versatile, allowing you to use any flavor of pie filling you prefer, such as blueberry, raspberry, or even apple. Each will bring a unique taste to the cake, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this dump cake, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer delicious options that will work just as well. Be sure to check that your pie filling is also gluten-free for a completely safe dessert.
What type of cake mix works best?
While any standard cake mix will work, a yellow or white cake mix tends to complement the flavors of most pie fillings best. However, chocolate cake mix can add a delicious twist, especially with berry fillings. Choose based on your preference!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).