If you are looking for a dessert that’s effortless but packed with vibrant flavors and a perfect blend of textures, this Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s one of those magical recipes where you literally dump a few pantry staples, sprinkle cake mix on top, and bake to golden, bubbly perfection. The mix of juicy fruit cocktail, pineapple, and peaches combined with a buttery, crunchy topping creates a sweet, comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe delivers a delicious outcome with zero fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a balance of sweetness, creaminess, and texture. Every item plays a crucial role, from the vibrant fruit providing bursts of juice and flavor, to the buttery cake mix topping that crisps to perfection in the oven.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): The dry cake mix is your crispy, golden topping that contrasts wonderfully with the soft fruit below.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 4 tbsp): Melted butter in the base and pats on top ensure the cake is rich and moist with a delicious crust.
- Fruit cocktail (1 can, 15 oz): A medley of luscious fruits in juice or syrup, providing the juicy, colorful heart of the dessert.
- Crushed pineapple (1/2 can, 7–8 oz): Adds tropical sweetness and extra moisture to the fruit layer.
- Peach chunks (1/2 can, 7–8 oz): Slightly drained to balance moisture, contributing soft, fragrant bites.
- Cream cheese or sour cream (1/2 cup): Optional but highly recommended for a creamy, tangy layer that elevates the overall mouthfeel.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top to add caramelized sweetness and depth.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Just enough warmth to complement the fruit and cake flavors.
- Chopped nuts, walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup): These bring a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma to the topping.
How to Make Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure the finished cake will slide out effortlessly and not stick to the sides. Preparing your pan well is the tiny step that makes serving this beauty a breeze later.
Step 2: Create the Buttery Cake Base
Pour half of the dry yellow cake mix—about 1½ cups—into the bottom of your prepared dish. Drizzle the melted butter over this layer, then use a spatula to gently press and flatten it evenly. This step forms a rich, buttery foundation that crisps as it bakes, giving your cake that perfect balance between softness and crunch.
Step 3: Add the Juicy Fruit Layers
Spread the entire can of fruit cocktail (juice and all), crushed pineapple, and slightly drained peach chunks evenly over the cake base. Be sure to spread the juices as evenly as possible to keep each bite moist and flavorful. The combination of these fruits brings a vibrant color and a sweet tang that makes this dump cake so irresistible.
Step 4: Dot with Cream Cheese or Sour Cream
This extra layer is your secret weapon for creamy richness. Spoon small amounts of cream cheese or sour cream over the fruit layer, distributing it evenly. As the cake bakes, this creates delightful pockets of smooth tang, balancing the fruit’s natural sweetness perfectly.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cake Mix
Sprinkle the rest of your dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, covering the fruit completely. Resist the urge to stir or mix everything together—this layering technique is what gives the dump cake its signature structure and texture.
Step 6: Add Butter, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, and Nuts
Place thin pats of butter evenly across the top of the cake mix. Then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and your choice of chopped nuts over the surface. Each of these adds richness, warmth, and a wonderful crunch to the final baked dessert—don’t skip this part!
Step 7: Bake to Glorious Golden Perfection
Pop your prepared baking dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the fruit juices are bubbling happily along the edges. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Step 8: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This short rest lets the juices settle slightly so your slices hold together better. Whether warm or at room temperature, this dessert is guaranteed to delight.
How to Serve Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely finishing touch, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top really makes this dump cake sing. Fresh mint sprigs or a sprinkle of additional chopped nuts add color and texture. These simple garnishes turn your homey dessert into something special for any occasion.
Side Dishes
This Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled milk, making it ideal for both after-dinner treats and afternoon snacks. If you want to get a little fancier, try serving alongside a mild custard or a drizzle of caramel sauce to complement the fruity sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dessert in individual ramekins or clear glass cups to showcase those gorgeous fruit layers and crumbly topping. For parties, a trifle-style presentation with layers of whipped cream or mascarpone between scoops adds flair. The versatility of this dump cake makes it a conversation starter on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making it perfect for enjoying the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this fruity delight longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the entire cooled cake well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in an airtight container before freezing. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps restore the crunchy topping while keeping the fruit nice and juicy. Microwave reheating is quicker but may soften the crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fruit instead of fruit cocktail?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can swap in fresh or canned mixed berries, cherries, or even apples and pears. Just be mindful of moisture content to avoid a soggy cake.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese or sour cream?
While optional, cream cheese or sour cream adds a lovely creamy tang and richness to the cake that balances the sweetness. You can omit this ingredient if you prefer a lighter fruit topping.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, look for a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten contamination. The concept works perfectly with a gluten-free base!
Why does the cake mix go on top and bottom without stirring?
Layering the dry cake mix on top and bottom without mixing allows the batter to bake into a crust-like texture on the outside while leaving soft, moist fruit and creamy layers inside. Stirring would turn it into more of a fruit cobbler.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?
Make sure to slightly drain the peach chunks and don’t over-pour the fruit juices. Also, using the butter pats on top helps create a crisp crust, balancing the moisture from the fruit.
Final Thoughts
This Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe is pure comfort with minimal effort—a dessert that feels special but never fussy. Its sweet, juicy fruit layers nestled under a golden, buttery topping make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly hope you give this easy-to-love dump cake a try soon because it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a beloved staple in any kitchen.
Print
Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake is a simple, luscious dessert featuring a buttery yellow cake topping over a medley of fruit cocktail, crushed pineapple, and peaches. With layers of creamy cream cheese and a crunchy nut and brown sugar topping, this easy-to-make dessert bakes into a warm, bubbling treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix, divided
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail in juice or syrup, not drained
- 1/2 can (7–8 oz) crushed pineapple, not drained
- 1/2 can (7–8 oz) peach chunks, drained slightly
- 1/2 cup cream cheese or sour cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
Additional
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the base: Pour half of the dry cake mix (about 1½ cups) evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix and use a spatula to gently press and flatten it into an even layer.
- Add the fruit: Evenly spread the entire contents of the fruit cocktail (with juice), crushed pineapple (with juice), and peach chunks (slightly drained) over the cake base, ensuring the juices spread across the surface.
- Add the creamy layer: Dollop small spoonfuls of cream cheese or sour cream evenly over the fruit layer to impart a rich, tangy, and creamy texture.
- Top with cake mix: Sprinkle the remaining dry cake mix evenly over the fruit and cream layer without stirring or mixing the layers together.
- Add toppings: Arrange the thin pats of unsalted butter over the top layer evenly. Then sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts across the surface for added sweetness, warmth, and crunch.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the fruit mixture is bubbling at the edges.
- Cool and serve: Allow the dump cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. It is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute cream cheese with sour cream depending on preference for tanginess and texture.
- Ensure the baking dish is well greased to prevent sticking.
- Use fresh chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for best flavor and texture.
- This recipe serves 12 and is great for potlucks and gatherings.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
