If you’re craving a dessert that’s as effortless as it is delicious, you’ve got to try this Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of juicy, tart blueberries and a buttery, golden cake topping that comes together in no time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a last-minute host, or just someone who loves a simple sweet treat, this dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. They’re all simple staples, but when combined, they create something truly special that feels like more effort than it really takes.
- 6 cups blueberries: Fresh or frozen works beautifully, providing juicy bursts of flavor that shine as the star of this cake.
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the berries without overpowering their natural tartness.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: This thickens the blueberry filling perfectly so it’s luscious but not runny.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant depth to the filling that rounds out the tart berries.
- One lemon (zested and juiced): Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the flavor, adding a zesty kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: A subtle hint of spice that complements the blueberries beautifully without stealing the show.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: The secret to an easy, buttery topping that crisps up perfectly in the oven.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into 1/4-inch slices: This creates that irresistible golden, flaky crust that makes every bite delightful.
How to Make Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that when you’re ready to bake, the heat is just right for golden, bubbling perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Blueberry Mixture
In a medium bowl, toss together the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice and zest, and cinnamon. This mix will give you a rich filling with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, thickening as it bakes to perfection.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Pour the blueberry mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish that’s been lightly coated with cooking spray. This layer will be the saucy, juicy foundation of your dump cake.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the fruit. This step sounds simple, but it’s key to creating that signature cake-on-top texture that’s both crisp and fluffy.
Step 5: Top with Butter
Arrange the cold butter slices evenly over the cake mix. As the butter melts, it transforms the dry cake mix into a rich, golden crust that pairs perfectly with the blueberry filling below.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dump cake for 1 hour, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling with blueberry goodness. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes—it’s worth the wait to let those flavors set and the cake to firm up slightly.
How to Serve Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some fresh blueberries or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is practically mandatory; the cool creaminess complements the warm, fruity cake perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing salad if you’re serving it at a larger gathering. For something heartier, try it alongside a scoop of creamy yogurt or even some freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming, rustic touch. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or a drizzle of honey on top for added texture and flavor complexity. Presentation can be casual or dressed up depending on your occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover dump cake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty, if not better!
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or storing in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place the whole dish in a preheated 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until warm and bubbly again. Adding a small splash of water before reheating in the oven helps keep the cake moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing to avoid a soggy cake.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cake mix?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests, and it will still turn out deliciously.
Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Certainly! Use a solid dairy-free butter or margarine for a dairy-free version. Just ensure it’s cold and sliced similarly to the recipe to achieve that golden topping.
How sweet is the dump cake? Can I adjust the sweetness?
This Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe is moderately sweet, letting the natural tartness of the berries shine. You can reduce or increase the granulated sugar according to your taste preference.
Can I make this cake with other fruits?
Definitely! Cherries, peaches, or mixed berries all make fantastic alternatives or additions to the blueberry base. Just adjust thickening agents slightly as needed for juicier fruits.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe is a treasure for anyone who loves effortless, comforting desserts. It’s so simple to make but delivers big on flavor and the warm, cozy feeling of homemade baked goods. Give it a try the next time you want a sweet treat without the fuss—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
Print
Easy Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This Easy Blueberry Dump Cake is a simple, delicious dessert that combines fresh blueberries with a buttery cake topping. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 6 cups blueberries
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into 1/4 inch slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to reach the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the ingredients.
- Prepare Blueberry Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon zest and juice, and cinnamon. This combination will create a thick, flavorful filling.
- Place in Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the blueberry mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the blueberry filling. This forms the base of the crispy cake topping.
- Top with Butter: Arrange the slices of cold butter evenly across the top of the cake mix. The butter will melt during baking, creating a rich, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, until the top is golden brown and the blueberry mixture is bubbly.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes so the filling can set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice slightly.
- Try using mixed berries or blackberries instead of blueberries for variation.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.
- Make sure butter slices are cold to help create a flaky crust.
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries; if frozen, do not thaw before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

