A Touch of Childhood: Grandma’s Seasonal Berry Dump Cake

Growing up in a cozy kitchen with the enticing aroma of baking wafting through the air was one of my fondest childhood memories. Every summer, my grandma would usher my siblings and me into the kitchen, where we collaborated on one of our favorite desserts: an easy, delightful berry dump cake. Cherries, blueberries, raspberries—whatever was in season made a perfect filling, bubbling and bursting with natural sweetness, all while being topped with a buttery, golden layer of cake mix.

This Berry Dump Cake is not just a delicious dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. As the juicy berries meld with the cake, every bite transports me back to sun-drenched evenings spent with family. Make this recipe your own and bring a piece of my childhood into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Foaming Color Eruption in a Jar

Easy to Make: Just mix, dump, and bake!
Seasonally Versatile: Use any ripe berries, so it’s perfect for summer.
One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal mess, maximum flavor from a single mixing bowl.
Kid-Approved: Fun for children to help prepare and devour!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or cherries)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Berries

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the mixed berries with sugar and lemon juice until well combined.
Transfer the berry mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.

Assembling the Cake

Sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the berry mixture, covering it completely.
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed (some dry spots are okay).
If desired, sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top for added flavor.

Bake

Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the berry mixture is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Berries: Feel free to mix and match berries based on availability. Peaches, apples, or a mix of frozen fruits also work well.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar according to your taste, especially if using sweeter or tart berries.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
Servings: 12

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen berries?
- Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
What can I substitute for cake mix?
- You can make your own cake mix using flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
How can I make it dairy-free?
- Use dairy-free butter alternatives and ensure you select a dairy-free cake mix.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the berry mixture a day in advance and add the cake mix before baking.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Serve your berry dump cake warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a light sparkling wine or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Final Thoughts

This Berry Dump Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a cherished family tradition that can easily become part of your own kitchen memories. I encourage you to try it and put your personal spin on it! After you’ve made your own version, please share your thoughts and any variations you’ve tried in the comments below. Happy baking!