If there’s one dessert that captures the heart of Southern simplicity, it’s Peach Dump Cake. This golden, buttery treat delivers all the comfort of a homemade cobbler with none of the fuss. You simply “dump” the ingredients together — no mixing bowls, no complicated steps — and out comes a bubbling, sweet masterpiece. Juicy peaches mingle with a buttery cake topping that crisps at the edges and melts in the center. I tried this with both canned and fresh peaches, and honestly, both turned out beautifully — the secret lies in letting the juices work their magic as the cake bakes. It’s the perfect dessert for last-minute gatherings, Sunday suppers, or those times when you crave something warm and nostalgic without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peach Dump Cake is one of those old-fashioned recipes that proves how a few simple ingredients can create something spectacular. It’s quick, easy, and requires almost no prep — perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. The sweetness of the peaches paired with the buttery, golden topping is pure Southern comfort. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can serve it warm with ice cream, chilled with whipped cream, or even enjoy it straight from the pan.
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Peach Dump Cake – The Easiest Southern Dessert You’ll Ever Bake
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peach Dump Cake is a classic, no-fuss dessert made by layering canned peaches, cake mix, and butter for a golden, bubbly, and delicious treat. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this Southern favorite is the perfect quick dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) sliced peaches in syrup (do not drain)
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour both cans of peaches (with syrup) into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the peaches — do not stir.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top, covering as much of the cake mix as possible.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped pecans if using.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use spice cake mix or white cake mix instead of yellow.
- Fresh or frozen peaches can be used — just toss with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water before layering.
- Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract for a flavor boost.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Canned sliced peaches – The classic choice for convenience. Use the syrup too — it helps form that luscious, jammy filling. Fresh or frozen peaches work well if they’re ripe and juicy.
Yellow cake mix – The key to the “dump” in dump cake. It forms a crisp, buttery crust as it bakes without any effort. I’ve also tried white cake mix for a lighter flavor, and it’s just as delicious.
Unsalted butter – Sliced thin and layered over the top to create that signature golden, buttery finish.
Brown sugar – Enhances the caramelized flavor and adds richness to the peaches.
Cinnamon and nutmeg – Classic warm spices that bring depth and cozy aroma to the dessert.
Vanilla extract – Adds a subtle sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
Salt – Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Pecans (optional) – Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and Southern charm.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Pour the canned peaches, including the syrup, into the dish. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the peach mixture — don’t stir it in. Place thin slices of butter across the entire surface so that it melts evenly during baking. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for added texture.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The filling should be hot and thick, with the cake topping crisp and buttery. Let it cool slightly before serving. For the ultimate Southern touch, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 people and takes about 50 minutes total — 5 minutes for prep and 45 minutes of baking time.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover Peach Dump Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm the whole pan in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Fresh Peach Version
Use 5–6 peeled, sliced fresh peaches. Toss them with a bit of sugar and lemon juice before layering.
Spiced Autumn Twist
Add extra cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of ginger for a cozy fall flavor.
Peach Berry Dump Cake
Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a tart, colorful variation.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix — the texture and flavor stay just as good.
Caramel Peach Delight
Drizzle caramel sauce over the peaches before adding the cake mix for extra decadence.
White Cake Swap
Use white or butter pecan cake mix for a slightly lighter flavor.
Peach Bourbon Bake
Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the peaches for a grown-up twist that enhances the caramel notes.
Nut-Free Option
Skip the pecans if you prefer a smoother, softer texture.
Sugar-Free Adaptation
Use a sugar-free cake mix and peaches packed in juice for a lower-sugar dessert.
Tropical Peach Dream
Add shredded coconut and a sprinkle of lime zest for a bright, summery twist.
FAQs
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because you simply “dump” all the ingredients into the pan — no mixing or complicated steps required.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches work wonderfully; just make sure they’re juicy and ripe.
Do I need to drain the peaches?
No, the syrup is essential for creating the gooey filling.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, white, spice, or butter pecan cake mixes are all great options.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Make sure the butter slices evenly cover the cake mix so it bakes into a golden crust.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, bake it up to a day ahead and reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to serve Peach Dump Cake?
Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for the perfect balance of hot and cold.
Can I add nuts or oats?
Yes, pecans or a sprinkle of oats add crunch and depth.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours — the texture will be slightly softer.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Use two baking dishes or a larger pan; just extend the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Peach Dump Cake proves that great desserts don’t need to be complicated. With minimal effort, you get a golden, bubbling masterpiece filled with sweet peaches and buttery cake goodness. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and endlessly adaptable — the kind of dessert that feels like home with every bite. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner or a last-minute potluck, this Southern classic is guaranteed to win hearts and satisfy sweet cravings every single time.
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