If you’re searching for that one unforgettable dessert everyone will ask you for, look no further than this Easy Peach Dump Cake. With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a bubbling, golden, sweet delight that’s as effortless as it is delicious. The peaches melt into a rich base, the buttery cake topping crisps up beautifully, and the whole thing comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re a baking pro or a total beginner, you’ll fall in love with how straightforward—and impressive—this treat is every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Easy Peach Dump Cake is how a few classic ingredients unite to create dessert magic. Each item plays its part—bringing juiciness, crunch, color, and just the right amount of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleaser shine:
- Canned peaches in syrup: These provide juicy sweetness, tender fruit, and an instant flavor base (be sure to use the syrup for extra moisture and caramelized edges).
- Yellow cake mix: The shortcut to a golden, buttery crumble on top; it soaks up the peach juice while crisping in the oven.
- Unsalted butter, melted: This is key for that luscious, crisped finish and helps everything brown up perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): Sprinkling a little over the peaches adds warmth and a bakery-fresh aroma.
- Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch lifts the flavor to a whole new level, adding subtle depth.
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional): The ideal creamy topping for serving, taking every bite over the top.
How to Make Easy Peach Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A little swipe of butter or nonstick spray keeps cleanup easy and ensures the cake slices glide right out.
Step 2: Add the Peaches
Pour both cans of peaches with all their syrup evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. Don’t be shy with the syrup—that’s what creates the luscious, fruity base and helps the cake mix blend beautifully.
Step 3: Spice It Up (Optional)
If you’re using cinnamon and nutmeg, sprinkle them evenly over the peaches now. These cozy spices really boost the aroma and give a homemade flavor that tastes like you baked all day (no one has to know your secret!).
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it gently, but thoroughly, over the peaches. Make sure you cover all the fruit so every bite gets that golden-tender topping after baking—don’t stir!
Step 5: Drizzle on the Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly across the entire surface of the cake mix. Try to cover as much area as possible. The butter soaks into the mix as it bakes, forming a rich, crispy crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy, with hints of caramel where the peach syrup and butter meet. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving so the juices thicken up just right.
How to Serve Easy Peach Dump Cake
Garnishes
Topping your Easy Peach Dump Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic move—the cold creaminess melts into the warm cake for out-of-this-world deliciousness. Or, try a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a cloud-like finish. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped pecans on top adds even more flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
While this dessert shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a mug of hot coffee or a chilled glass of sweet tea. For summer gatherings, serve alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad to keep things bright and refreshing. You could even team it up with a baked custard or lemon mousse for a dreamy dessert bar.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or picnics, scoop the warm Easy Peach Dump Cake into mason jars for handy, charming single-serves. Hosting a fancy dinner? Plate slices with a zigzag of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Or, cut it into bars once cooled and dust them with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or move the Easy Peach Dump Cake to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four days. The flavors blend even more as it chills!
Freezing
Easy Peach Dump Cake freezes well, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks or make-ahead desserts! Cool it completely, then seal in a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to dig in.
Reheating
Reheat chilled Easy Peach Dump Cake gently in the microwave for 30–45 seconds per serving, or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes, covered with foil. This brings back that magically gooey, fresh-from-the-oven texture and aroma.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen peaches work beautifully in Easy Peach Dump Cake. Just mix your sliced peaches with about half a cup of sugar and a generous splash of lemon juice to mimic the syrup in canned peaches. This keeps the cake moist and sweet.
Do I really have to use the whole cake mix?
Yes, using the full box of cake mix ensures the proper ratio of juicy peaches to crisp, golden topping. If it looks like a lot at first, don’t worry—the syrup and butter merge with the mix as it bakes, creating that signature “dump cake” texture everyone loves.
What’s the best way to melt butter for this recipe?
Pop your butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short 15–20 second bursts, stirring in between. Or, melt it gently on the stovetop. Be sure it’s fully melted and pourable so it evenly covers the top of your cake mix.
Can I make Easy Peach Dump Cake in advance?
Yes! Make the cake a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Reheat just before serving for that warm, cozy effect. It actually gets even better as the flavors have a chance to blend overnight.
Are there gluten-free or vegan versions?
You bet! Swap in your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix and check that your canned peaches are gluten-free. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cake mix. The results are still wonderful—everyone will want in on a slice.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Easy Peach Dump Cake, it’s bound to become your go-to for easy entertaining and sweet cravings alike. There’s nothing like a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. So treat yourself and your loved ones—give this a whirl, and watch the smiles roll in!
Print
Easy Peach Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Peach Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert that comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples. Canned peaches are topped with a buttery cake mix for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Canned Peaches:
- 2 (15 oz) cans sliced peaches in syrup
Yellow Cake Mix:
- 1 box (15.25 oz)
Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted, melted
Spices (optional):
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For Serving (optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Peaches: Spread the canned peaches with syrup in the dish. Add cinnamon and nutmeg if desired.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the peaches.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted butter over the cake mix.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool before serving with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For added crunch, include chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
- Feel free to use fresh or frozen peaches with added sugar and lemon juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
