If you’re searching for the ultimate summertime treat that’s both outrageously easy and irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Peach Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that wins hearts at potlucks, family dinners, or even lazy Sunday afternoons. With just a handful of pantry staples and absolutely no fussy techniques, you’ll create a golden, bubbly masterpiece that tastes like a warm hug from grandma. Every bite is a blissful mix of juicy peaches, buttery crumbles, and a hint of spice—pure comfort food that’s nearly impossible to mess up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Peach Dump Cake Recipe is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something magical. Each element plays its own tasty role, ensuring you end up with a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is crave-worthy. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) sliced peaches in juice or light syrup, undrained: These bring natural sweetness and juiciness, forming the delicious fruity base of the cake.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: The secret shortcut that develops into a tender, golden crumb on top—no mixing required!
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats: Butter melts into the cake mix, creating those dreamy pockets of richness and crisp edges.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): A dash of cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with peaches.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Nutmeg brings a subtle, aromatic depth that lifts the whole dessert.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Just a quick spritz ensures your cake serves up without a sticky mess.
How to Make Peach Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray—this simple step guarantees easy serving and cleanup later on.
Step 2: Layer the Peaches
Pour both cans of sliced peaches, juice and all, into your prepared dish. Spread them out into an even layer. The juice is essential—it keeps the cake moist and infuses every bite with peachy goodness.
Step 3: Sprinkle on Spices
If you’re feeling a little fancy, now’s the time to dust your peaches with cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices are optional, but they add a lovely warmth and depth that makes the Peach Dump Cake Recipe extra special.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the peach layer. Don’t stir! The magic of a dump cake is letting those layers do their thing as they bake.
Step 5: Top with Butter
Arrange the thin slices of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. As it melts in the oven, the butter creates a perfectly golden, slightly crispy crust on the surface.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden brown top that smells heavenly. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving—if you can resist diving in right away!
How to Serve Peach Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This dessert is a blank canvas for all your favorite toppings. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream slowly melting into the warm cake is pure bliss. Or, try a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic touch. For a pop of color, a few fresh mint leaves work beautifully too.
Side Dishes
While the Peach Dump Cake Recipe easily stands on its own, you can pair it with a light fruit salad or a crisp glass of sweet iced tea for a Southern-inspired finish. If you’re making it for brunch, serve alongside quiche or a savory egg bake for a delightful sweet-and-savory combo.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, serve individual portions in mason jars or ramekins—perfect for parties or picnics. You can also layer the cake in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra peaches, transforming it into a show-stopping trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead sweet treat.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Peach Dump Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully! After cooling, scoop individual portions into airtight containers or wrap the whole dish tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave for about 30–45 seconds, or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. A quick reheat brings back all that gooey, buttery goodness as if it were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen peaches work beautifully in this Peach Dump Cake Recipe—just add about ½ cup of sugar to balance the tartness and make up for the sweetness usually found in canned peaches.
Do I have to use yellow cake mix?
Not at all! While yellow cake mix is traditional and gives that classic flavor, feel free to swap in white or even spice cake mix for a fun twist. Each variety will bring its own unique flair to the dessert.
What’s the best way to slice the butter?
Thin, even pats are best. This ensures the butter melts and distributes across the top, giving you those irresistible crispy, golden spots. Cold butter slices more easily than softened, so try chilling it first for neat, even slices.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just substitute a gluten-free yellow cake mix for the regular one. Everything else in the Peach Dump Cake Recipe remains the same, so everyone can dig in without worry.
Why shouldn’t I stir the cake mix?
The beauty of a dump cake is in the layers—keeping them separate creates that signature combination of juicy fruit on the bottom and a crumbly, buttery topping. Stirring blends everything, and you’ll lose the wonderful texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how effortlessly this Peach Dump Cake Recipe comes together, yet the results are always crowd-pleasing and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to dessert!
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Peach Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Peach Dump Cake recipe is a delicious, no-fuss dessert that combines canned peaches, a yellow cake mix, and buttery goodness to create a warm, comforting treat. Perfect for summer or any time you want a quick and tasty dessert, it can be enjoyed on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 2 cans (15 oz each) sliced peaches in juice or light syrup, undrained
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Dairy
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Peaches: Pour the canned peaches with their juice into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly for a consistent layer.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the peaches if you wish to add a warm, spiced flavor to your cake.
- Top with Cake Mix: Evenly pour the dry yellow cake mix over the peaches. Smooth the top gently without stirring so the layers remain distinct.
- Add Butter: Arrange the thin pats of unsalted butter evenly over the surface of the cake mix to ensure a rich, golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm alone or with your favorite vanilla ice cream or whipped cream as a delightful topping.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use canned peaches in heavy syrup or add a splash of vanilla extract to the peaches before baking.
- You can substitute fresh or frozen peaches, but if you do, add ½ cup of sugar to the peaches to compensate for reduced sweetness.
- Make sure not to stir the cake mix into the peaches; the layering is key to the cake’s texture.
- Use unsalted butter to control salt levels, but salted butter can be used if preferred, adjusting added salt accordingly.
- This dessert pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
