Peach dump cake is an easy, comforting dessert that combines juicy peaches with a buttery cake topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy treat at home, it’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why We Love This Peach Dump Cake Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love peach dump cake, starting with its simplicity. You’ll find that it requires minimal preparation and just a handful of ingredients, making it a go-to recipe even for beginner bakers. The beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled in the fridge, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. You might also appreciate how an underestimated mix of ingredients comes together in a delicious way that celebrates fresh peaches.
Moreover, when you make peach dump cake, you create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of baking peaches fills your home, creating a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dessert will quickly become a fan favorite. So let’s get started on this sweet journey to make your peach dump cake.
Ingredients for Peach Dump Cake
To create this delicious peach dump cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 cups Fresh Peaches (peeled and sliced, about 6-7 large peaches)
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup Sugar (adjust based on the peaches’ sweetness)
- 1 box Vanilla or Yellow Cake Mix
- 3/4 cup Butter (1 1/2 sticks, cut into thin slices)
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (optional, for garnish)
With these simple ingredients, you’re already on your way to making a truly memorable dessert. Make sure to choose ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture.
How to Make Peach Dump Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make your delicious peach dump cake, step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating the oven ensures your cake will bake evenly and rise beautifully.
- Prepare the Peaches: Start by peeling and slicing your fresh peaches. Place the sliced peaches into a medium-sized bowl. You can use as few as six or as many as seven large peaches, depending on how generous you want your peach filling to be.
- Sweeten the Peaches: Add sugar to the peaches, starting with a quarter cup and increasing to half a cup if you prefer a sweeter dessert. Toss the peaches gently until they are evenly coated in the sugar, which will draw out their natural juices.
- Layer the Peaches: Pour the sweetened peaches into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly so that you have a beautiful layer of fruit at the bottom.
- Add the Cake Mix: Take your box of vanilla or yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the peach layer. Ensure that it covers the peaches completely; this helps in creating the perfect cake-like topping.
- Layer the Butter: Slice your butter into very thin pieces. Strategically place these pieces over the cake mix, trying your best to cover the entire surface area. The butter will melt during baking, enriching the cake mix and creating a deliciously crunchy top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 42 to 50 minutes. You will know your peach dump cake is ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to set for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This cooling time will help the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
Following these steps will lead you to create a peach dump cake that not only looks beautiful but tastes heavenly, giving you a satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Peach Dump Cake
Serving peach dump cake can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some tips to enhance the experience:
- Warm or Cold: You can serve the peach dump cake warm out of the oven or allow it to cool and serve it chilled. Each option comes with its own unique appeal.
- Garnishes: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is an excellent addition. The cold creaminess complements the warmth of the cake, creating a perfect contrast of temperatures that tantalizes the senses.
- Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, you could sprinkle some mint leaves on top or add a dusting of powdered sugar. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds a pop of freshness.
Keep in mind that peach dump cake can be a standalone dessert, but serving it with ice cream or even whipped cream can elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The choice of serving style allows you to personalize the dessert to fit your gathering or occasion.
Expert Tips for Peach Dump Cake
To ensure your peach dump cake turns out perfect every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Ripe Peaches: Using ripe, sweet peaches is key. Look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch, indicating they are juicy and flavorful. If fresh peaches are out of season, you can opt for canned peaches as a substitute.
- Adjust Sugar to Taste: Depending on the natural sweetness of your peaches, you might want to adjust the amount of sugar. If the peaches are particularly sweet, lean towards the lower end of the sugar measurement.
- Don’t Overmix: When layering the ingredients, avoid overmixing or stirring them. This is a “dump” cake, so layering is all you need to do—mixing can lead to a denser texture.
- Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens vary, and while the baking time is a good guideline, keep an eye on the dessert towards the end of the baking time. Look for that golden brown color and the bubbling juices.
By following these tips and paying attention to your ingredients, you’ll master the art of making peach dump cake and impress everyone who gets to enjoy a slice.
How to Store Peach Dump Cake
Storing your peach dump cake properly will help maintain its freshness and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to storage. This prevents moisture buildup and sogginess.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container. If you don’t have a container, you can cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate: Store your peach dump cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It should last about 3-5 days in the fridge.
- Reheat Before Serving: If you prefer your dump cake warm, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. Just be sure to heat it gently to avoid drying it out.
By adhering to these storage tips, you can extend the life of your dessert and enjoy the sweet goodness of peach dump cake even a few days later.
Variations of Peach Dump Cake
While the classic peach dump cake is undeniably delicious, you might be interested in exploring variations to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Berry Addition: For a fruity twist, consider adding fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries to the peach layer. This combination creates a delightful mix of flavors and colors.
- Cinnamon Spin: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix before adding it to the peaches. This spice will bring a cozy warmth to the dish, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Nutty Top: Incorporate chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top of the cake mix before baking. The nuts will toast in the oven, adding a delightful crunch and flavor.
- Golden Delicious: Instead of vanilla or yellow cake mix, experiment with lemon cake mix for a citrusy zing that complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.
These variations allow you to customize your peach dump cake to fit different occasions or simply satisfy your culinary curiosity. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
FAQ About Peach Dump Cake
What is a peach dump cake?
Peach dump cake is a simple dessert that combines fresh peaches with a layer of cake mix and butter, baked until bubbly and golden. Its effortless preparation makes it a favorite among home bakers.
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peaches can be used in peach dump cake. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
How can I make peach dump cake gluten-free?
To make your peach dump cake gluten-free, substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free version. Ensure all the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make peach dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare peach dump cake ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator after baking and reheat it before serving.
What can I serve with peach dump cake?
Peach dump cake can be served with a variety of accompaniments, but it pairs especially well with vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream for added richness.
Peach Dump Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 6 cups Fresh Peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6-7 large peaches)
- 1/4 cup Sugar (adjust based on the peaches’ sweetness)
- 1/2 cup Sugar (optional, for sweeter dessert)
- 1 box Vanilla or Yellow Cake Mix
- 3/4 cup Butter (1 1/2 sticks, cut into thin slices)
- to taste Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice the fresh peaches and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add sugar to the peaches, starting with 1/4 cup and adjusting to 1/2 cup depending on sweetness preference. Toss gently to coat.
- Pour the sweetened peaches into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and spread them out evenly.
Assembly
- Sprinkle the vanilla or yellow cake mix evenly over the peach layer.
- Layer the thin slices of butter over the cake mix, trying to cover the entire surface.
Baking
- Bake the peach dump cake in the preheated oven for about 42 to 50 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 10 to 15 minutes before serving.