Blueberry Dump Cake: 5 Easy Steps for a Scrumptious Treat!

Name: blueberry dump cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen); 1 box yellow cake mix; 0.5 cup butter (melted); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/31/2025

This delightful blueberry dump cake will surely become your go-to dessert because of its simplicity and incredible taste. Combining sweet blueberries with a buttery cake mix, this dessert beautifully straddles the line between homemade and effortless. It stands as a testament to how a few well-chosen ingredients can transform into something truly spectacular, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a personal indulgence, this blueberry creation will not disappoint.

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Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the smells of baking, especially during the holidays. She had a way of making dessert preparation look like magic. One of my fondest memories was her “surprise” dessert, which often turned out to be this very recipe. Not knowing what was baking made it even more exciting! Although I helped her every now and then, the final product was invariably a pleasant revelation. Now, I make sure to keep this tradition alive by preparing this cake during family gatherings. It brings back beautiful memories and fills the room with warmth and love, just like grandma’s kitchen did.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This delightful treat is not just a recipe; it’s a simplification of the dessert world’s most cumbersome processes.

Effortless Preparation: The main appeal of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With no complicated procedures or technical know-how required, it’s perfect for novice bakers.
Minimal Ingredients: Using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich and delicious dessert in no time.
Adaptable for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a luncheon, attending a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake fits right in.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepares easily in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with family and friends.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward, but to unlock its full potential, using high-quality components is key. Here’s everything you need to know about sourcing and substituting them to your advantage.

Blueberries: While fresh blueberries provide the best flavor, frozen ones can also suffice. If you opt for frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
Cake Mix: A basic yellow or white cake mix is ideal. However, adventurous bakers can experiment with flavors like lemon or vanilla for a unique twist.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the flavor. Quality does matter here, so if possible, choose a European-style butter for its richness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar serves to enhance the natural sweetness of the blueberries, but for a caramel-like texture, consider switching it for brown sugar.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures that the cake doesn’t stick to the pan and makes clean-up a breeze.

Step 2

Spread the blueberries evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using fresh blueberries, rinse and dry them thoroughly first to remove any dirt or residue.

Step 3

Pour sugar evenly over the blueberries to enhance their sweetness and create a perfect syrupy texture during baking.

Step 4

Sprinkle the cake mix directly on top of the blueberry-sugar layer. Make sure it’s spread evenly to cover the blueberries completely. Pat it down gently with a spatula if needed.

Step 5

Melt the butter and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix layer. This is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust. Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the filling set fully.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions into an airtight container. The cake will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, lasting up to two months. To reheat, simply let thaw in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may ruin the texture of the crust.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

Gluten-Free: Switch the regular cake mix for a gluten-free alternative without sacrificing taste.
Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like Splenda or Stevia for a lower-calorie version.
Berry Mix: Experiment with various fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or peaches for a deliciously varied taste.
Nutty Twist: Add almonds or walnuts on top of the cake mix before baking for a crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fancier presentation, dust with powdered sugar just before serving. Perfect for backyard gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even as a delightful brunch option, the cake shines in any setting. For an added touch of elegance, serve with a sprig of fresh mint or a handful of seasonal fruits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in place of blueberries? Yes! This recipe is quite flexible, and many fruits work well as substitutes or additions. Consider using blackberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a berry mix, or add peaches and mangoes for a more tropical flair. Just ensure that the chosen fruits are ripe and well-drained to prevent too much moisture in the cake.

Is it necessary to pre-cook the blueberries? No, pre-cooking is not required. The simplicity of this recipe is in its ‘dump and bake’ approach. As the cake bakes, the blueberries naturally release their juices, creating a syrupy layer that’s both sweet and tart.

What type of pan is best for baking this cake? A standard 9×13 inch pan is optimal for achieving the right texture and staying within the suggested bake time. However, you can use other pan sizes, such as an 8×8 inch for a thicker cake, though adjustments in bake time may be needed. Glass or ceramic dishes tend to distribute heat evenly, promoting a well-baked dessert.