Blueberry dump cake is an incredibly easy, yet delicious dessert that combines the sweet-tartness of fresh blueberries with a buttery, cake-like topping. This simple one-pan treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dessert or a special treat for a gathering. Its minimal ingredients and effortless preparation make it ideal for those looking to indulge without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The magic behind this recipe lies in its simplicity. All you need to do is “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, and let the oven do the rest. The fresh or frozen blueberries burst with flavor as they cook, while the cake mix creates a golden, crispy topping. The addition of butter ensures a rich, satisfying flavor, while the optional walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and depth. Lemon juice enhances the brightness of the blueberries, making each bite refreshing and full of flavor. It’s a no-fuss dessert that delivers an irresistible combination of sweetness and texture, making it a crowd favorite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of blueberry dump cake lies in its simplicity and versatility. It requires very little prep work, making it a great option when you’re in a rush or don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh or frozen blueberries, cake mix, butter, and optional add-ins like nuts and cinnamon, this dessert comes together in no time. It’s also highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak the flavor by adding different types of nuts, spices, or even fruits.

The dessert’s texture is another reason you’ll fall in love with this recipe. The blueberries create a juicy, fruity base, while the cake mix topping bakes up to a deliciously crumbly, slightly golden crust. The sweetness of the sugar balances perfectly with the tartness of the blueberries, and the buttery richness pulls it all together. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for serving at family gatherings, potlucks, or even for a cozy night in with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Ingredients

For the Blueberry Dump Cake:

Fresh or frozen blueberries
Granulated sugar
Lemon juice
Yellow cake mix
Unsalted butter, melted
Walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
Ground cinnamon (optional)

Variations

There are many ways to make this blueberry dump cake your own by incorporating different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas:

Peach Blueberry Dump Cake: Add a layer of canned peach slices along with the blueberries for a delicious peach and blueberry combination.
Berry Blend: Swap the blueberries for mixed berries such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, or use a combination of them for a colorful variation.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground nutmeg or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor to the cake mix topping.
Coconut Twist: Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut over the top before baking to add texture and a tropical flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or margarine to make it dairy-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Blueberries

Spread the fresh or frozen blueberries evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using frozen blueberries, there is no need to thaw them before adding them to the dish.

Step 3: Add the Sugar and Lemon Juice

Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the blueberries, followed by a tablespoon of lemon juice. This will help enhance the natural flavors of the blueberries.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the blueberries, ensuring that it covers the fruit as evenly as possible.

Step 5: Pour the Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter will help the cake mix bake up into a golden, crispy topping.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans and ground cinnamon over the cake mix for added flavor and texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of baking to ensure the topping doesn’t burn.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the blueberry dump cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Layering: Make sure the cake mix is spread evenly over the blueberries for a consistent topping.
Don’t Overmix: Since the cake mix doesn’t need to be stirred, avoid mixing it with the blueberries—simply sprinkle it on top.
Butter Distribution: Try to drizzle the butter evenly across the cake mix to ensure the topping bakes uniformly.
Optional Garnishes: If desired, add a few extra chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for a decorative touch.
Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them first. This will help prevent the cake from becoming too watery.

How to Serve

Blueberry dump cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a variety of toppings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic dessert experience. Alternatively, you can top it with a few fresh blueberries or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a sweet dessert wine, making it perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover blueberry dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Freezing

Blueberry dump cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire cake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use any type of cake mix, such as white, butter, or even spice cake, depending on the flavor you prefer.

2. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe, and there’s no need to thaw them before using.

3. Can I make this without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional, so you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free dessert.

4. Can I use honey instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute honey for granulated sugar, but keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor and texture of the cake.

5. Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Yes, you can experiment by adding other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even peaches along with the blueberries for a mixed fruit dump cake.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

8. How long does this cake last?

Stored in the refrigerator, blueberry dump cake will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

9. Can I serve this cake cold?

While it’s best served warm, you can serve it cold as well. Reheat before serving if you prefer it warm.

10. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dump cake in advance, cover it, and bake it later when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Blueberry dump cake is a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s ideal for busy bakers who still want to create something special. The combination of juicy blueberries, buttery cake topping, and optional nuts or spices makes for a satisfying and comforting dessert that’s sure to be a hit. Whether served warm with ice cream or on its own, blueberry dump cake is a dessert everyone will love.