Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for chocolate and fruit lovers alike. The combination of sweet, tart cherries and rich chocolate cake creates a delightful contrast of flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients that you dump into the slow cooker. No mixing, no fuss—just throw everything in and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially when you need a hassle-free treat.

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/4 cup milk (optional for a moister texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Pour the cherry pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix over the cherry filling. Do not stir—just spread it evenly over the cherries.
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering it as evenly as possible. (It’s okay if some parts are not fully covered with butter.)
Top with chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cake is cooked through and the edges are golden brown.
Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8-10
Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (includes cooking time)

Variations

Fruit variations: Swap the cherry pie filling for other pie fillings, such as apple, blueberry, or peach, for a different flavor.
Nut-free version: Omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free dessert.
Cake flavor: Try using a white or yellow cake mix instead of chocolate for a lighter, different flavor profile.
Add-ins: For extra flavor, mix in a handful of mini marshmallows or drizzle caramel sauce on top after cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let the cake cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire cake in the slow cooker on low for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

You can use fresh cherries, but you’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and a little cornstarch to create a similar consistency to cherry pie filling.

2. Can I make this cake without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can bake this in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cake is set.

3. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, feel free to use a white, yellow, or even a gluten-free cake mix instead of chocolate. Each will create a unique flavor and texture.

4. Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used in place of canned pie filling. Just make sure to thaw and drain the cherries before using them, and add a little sugar to help create the right texture.

5. Do I need to mix the ingredients in the slow cooker?

No, one of the beauties of this recipe is that you don’t need to mix anything. Just layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, and they will cook to perfection.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the slow cooker or microwave before serving.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free. Make sure all your ingredients, including the pie filling, are also gluten-free.

8. Can I make this without butter?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free or lower-fat version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

9. How do I make the cake less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, try reducing the amount of sugar in the pie filling or opt for a sugar-free pie filling. You can also use a reduced-sugar cake mix.

10. Can I add whipped cream or ice cream on top?

Yes, this cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It adds extra indulgence to this already rich dessert.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and a buttery cake topping creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet snack or a comforting dessert to share, this slow cooker cake delivers on flavor with minimal effort. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s a must-try dessert for busy cooks who still want to enjoy something special.