By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of Diary of a Real Housewife.

Ever wondered how a dessert can go from pantry basics to a family favorite in under an hour? Jennie Duncan shows that with just four ingredients, a cherry dump cake can become the centerpiece of any dinner table.

Gathering the Essentials

The recipe starts with a single can of cherry pie filling—42 ounces, according to Duncan. She adds a teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle depth of flavor, then spreads the mixture into a greased 9‑by‑13‑inch casserole dish. “You are going to dump in your cherry pie filling, dump some cake mix on top and then pop it in the oven,” she explains, emphasizing the simplicity of the method.

Preparing the dish requires only a light coating of non‑stick cooking spray or a thin layer of oil, ensuring the cake releases cleanly after baking. This minimal prep step keeps the focus on flavor rather than technique.

Creating the Golden Topping

The topping combines one box of yellow cake mix with one and a half sticks of butter, diced and melted in the microwave. A teaspoon of salt is added to balance the sweetness. Duncan spreads the butter‑laden cake mix evenly over the cherry base, creating a crumbly layer that will brown beautifully as it bakes.

She advises baking at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, watching for the topping to turn a perfect golden brown. “You know this recipe is done when that cake topping is perfectly browned,” she notes, a visual cue that signals the dessert is ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions that Elevate the Dish

While the cake stands well on its own, Duncan recommends pairing it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. “We love to serve this with vanilla ice cream or with some whipped cream,” she says, highlighting how the cold contrast enhances the warm, buttery crumble.

This flexibility makes the dessert suitable for a range of occasions—from a casual weeknight treat to a holiday gathering where guests expect something comforting yet effortless.

Why This Recipe Resonates

In an era where home cooks often juggle busy schedules, a dump cake offers a low‑stress solution without sacrificing taste. The reliance on store‑bought components—pie filling, cake mix, and butter—means shoppers can pick up everything in a single trip to the grocery store.

Moreover, the recipe’s straightforward instructions appeal to novice bakers while still delivering the indulgent texture that seasoned bakers appreciate. The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery, slightly crisp topping creates a balance of flavors that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Tips for Customizing Your Dump Cake

Although the base recipe is simple, there are easy ways to personalize it. Swapping the cherry filling for blueberry or peach preserves introduces new fruit profiles. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the butter before mixing can lend a warm spice note.

For those seeking a lighter version, using a reduced‑fat butter or a plant‑based alternative works without compromising the cake’s structure. Experimenting with different ice cream flavors—such as caramel or bourbon vanilla—can also add a sophisticated twist.

Overall, Jennie Duncan’s cherry dump cake demonstrates that a few pantry staples can produce a dessert that feels homemade, comforting, and universally appealing.

The full episode of Diary of a Real Housewife is available on OBBM Network TV.

Get the full recipe: Cherry Dump Cake • The Diary of a Real Housewife