In my kitchen, some of the sweetest memories come from the simplest recipes. I once stumbled upon this Peach Cobbler Dump Cake on a busy afternoon when I wanted something warm, comforting, and quick — a treat that didn’t demand hours in the kitchen.
What surprised me was how a handful of everyday pantry staples transformed into a bubbling, golden delight with minimal fuss. It felt like magic, the way the peaches softened and mingled with the buttery cake topping, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that instantly warmed my heart. This recipe carries a gentle reminder that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Every time I make it, I’m transported back to cozy afternoons with friends and family gathered around the table, the air fragrant with cinnamon and baked fruit. It’s a dessert that feels like a hug on a plate — nostalgic, sweet, and incredibly inviting.
Whether I use fresh peaches in season or rely on canned ones, it never fails to deliver that perfect balance of sweet, tender fruit and a crunchy cake crust. I love how it bridges generations, combining the ease of modern baking with the soul of a timeless cobbler.
Short Description
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is an easy, one-dish dessert featuring juicy peaches topped with a buttery cake mix that bakes into a crisp, golden crust. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners.
Key Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) peach slices, drained (or fresh/frozen peaches)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or any cake mix of your choice)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Tools Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (for optional mixing)
- Oven mitts
- Serving spoon or spatula
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
Spread the drained peach slices evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If you like extra sweetness, sprinkle the 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly over the peaches.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the peaches. Do not stir; this layering is key to the “dump cake” texture.
Step 4: Pour the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. This will soak through during baking, creating a crisp, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and you see bubbles around the edges.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Scoop out portions onto plates or bowls. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent touch, if desired.
Troubleshooting Tip: If the crust is browning too fast, tent loosely with foil halfway through baking to avoid burning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Effortless and quick to prepare
– Requires minimal ingredients and kitchen tools
– Perfectly balances juicy fruit with a crunchy, buttery crust
– Versatile with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches
– Comforting and nostalgic, ideal for family meals or casual gatherings
– Can be served warm or with ice cream for extra indulgence
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Mistake: Stirring the cake mix into the peaches
Solution: Keep the layers separate to achieve the signature crust and soft fruit contrast.
Mistake: Using un-drained peaches
Solution: Always drain canned peaches to prevent soggy cake. If using fresh or frozen, lightly pat dry.
Mistake: Butter poured unevenly
Solution: Drizzle butter slowly and evenly to ensure all parts of the cake crisp up.
Mistake: Overbaking until dry
Solution: Bake until golden and bubbly, but check after 35 minutes to avoid dryness. Cover with foil if browning too fast.
Mistake: Skipping the sugar and cinnamon
Solution: Though optional, adding sugar and cinnamon enhances flavor depth—don’t skip unless you want a milder dessert.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this Peach Cobbler Dump Cake warm for the best experience.
It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a cold glass of iced tea or a lightly sweetened lemonade.
This dessert works well plated for intimate dinners or family-style at casual gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place the entire dish in a 325°F oven, covered, for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Avoid reheating too long to preserve the crispy topping; if needed, remove the cover for the last 5 minutes to restore crispness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of canned?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen peaches before using to prevent excess moisture.
2. What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
You can substitute with white or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.
3. Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, choose a gluten-free cake mix and ensure canned or frozen peaches are gluten-free.
4. How do I make this less sweet?
Reduce or omit the added sugar and use a cake mix with less sugar. Adding cinnamon can add flavor without extra sweetness.
5. Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before drizzling butter for added crunch.
Tips & Tricks
Use room-temperature butter for easier drizzling.
Let the cake rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg with the cinnamon.
If peaches are very juicy, consider placing a paper towel under the baking dish to catch drips.
Recipe Variations
Berry Cobbler Dump Cake: Replace peaches with a mix of fresh or frozen berries. Add an extra 1/2 tsp lemon zest to the cake mix for brightness. Follow the same baking instructions.
Tropical Twist: Use canned pineapple chunks and mango slices in place of peaches. Sprinkle with shredded coconut before baking to add a tropical flair.
Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake: Substitute peaches with peeled, sliced apples tossed with 1 tsp cinnamon and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Use a spice cake mix for enhanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is a true keeper in my recipe collection, blending simplicity with deep, satisfying flavors. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a small celebration, no matter the occasion. I enjoy how it requires little prep but yields a warm, inviting dessert that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s comforting without fuss, making it perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.
The buttery crust cracking under a sweet layer of peaches always brings a smile to my face. Sharing it feels like sharing a piece of my family’s heritage — a taste of tradition that’s easy enough for anyone to enjoy. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and warmth as it has brought me over the years.
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake
Print ThisIngredients
- 1 can (15 oz) peach slices, drained (or fresh/frozen peaches)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or any cake mix of your choice)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
Evenly spread drained peaches in the dish. Sprinkle sugar over if you want extra sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the peaches without stirring.
Step 4: Pour the Butter
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
