Caramel Peach Dump Cake Recipe: ASweet and Simple Dessert

istock

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the sweet, juicy goodness of peaches with the
rich, buttery flavor of caramel, then you’re in for a treat. The caramel peach dump cake is an
incredibly easy-to-make dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who
loves quick, delicious desserts.

What is a Dump Cake?

A dump cake is one of the simplest desserts you can make. The concept is straightforward:
you “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and bake. Originating in the
United States, dump cakes have become a popular go-to dessert because they require no
mixing or complicated steps. Just layer, bake, and enjoy!

Popular variations of dump cakes include the classic cherry pie filling with yellow cake mix
and the decadent chocolate dump cake with fudge and marshmallows. The caramel peach
dump cake is another beloved version, combining the rich flavors of caramel with the
freshness of peaches.

Ingredients for Caramel Peach Dump Cake

To make this mouthwatering dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
● 1 can of sliced peaches in syrup (about 15 ounces)
● 1 box of yellow cake mix
● 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
● 1/2 cup of caramel sauce
● 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
● 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional)
● 1/4 cup of brown sugar (optional)

Optional Ingredients:

● A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
● A pinch of sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor

Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
● A 9×13 inch baking dish
● A spatula or spoon for spreading the ingredients
● A measuring cup for the butter
● An oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

When choosing a baking dish, it’s important to pick one that distributes heat evenly. Glass or
ceramic dishes work well for this recipe, helping the cake bake uniformly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making your caramel peach dump cake.

Prepare the Peaches:
Drain the syrup from the can of peaches, but reserve about 1/4 cup of the syrup to
add moisture to the cake. Arrange the peach slices evenly at the bottom of your
baking dish.
Layer the Ingredients:
Drizzle the reserved syrup and caramel sauce over the peaches. If you’re using
cinnamon and nutmeg, sprinkle them over the peaches to add warmth and depth to
the flavor.
Add the Cake Mix:
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the peaches and caramel layer. Do not
stir or mix – this is key to the dump cake’s texture.
Pour the Butter:
Slowly pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, ensuring it covers as
much of the surface as possible. The butter will help the cake mix form a golden,
crispy crust as it bakes.
Bake the Cake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the
top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The cake is ready when a toothpick
inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips for Perfecting Your Dump Cake

To make sure your caramel peach dump cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

● Achieving the Perfect Caramelization: The key to a perfect dump cake is the
caramelization of the butter and sugar. If you want extra caramelization, you can add
a little extra brown sugar on top before baking.
● Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t stir the cake mix into the peaches – it’s crucial
for achieving the right texture. Also, be careful not to overbake; the cake should be
golden, not burnt.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel peach dump cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few
accompaniments:

● With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm cake creates a
delightful contrast between hot and cold.
● With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to the rich
dessert.

Why This Recipe Works

The caramel peach dump cake works because of the simple yet effective combination of
flavors and textures. The buttery, crispy cake layer contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet
peaches and rich caramel sauce. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth,
making it the perfect comfort dessert.

Substitutions and Variations

Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to experiment, here are some great
substitutions and variations:

● Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make the recipe suitable
for those with gluten intolerance.
● Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure your
caramel sauce is dairy-free.
● Alternative Fruits: Try using other fruits like apples, pears, or mixed berries. Just
make sure they’re in syrup or add extra sweetener to compensate.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), you can store your dump cake easily:

● Storing Leftovers: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an
airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
● Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or
until warm. If you prefer, you can also reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F for
10-15 minutes.

Common Questions about Dump Cakes

● Can you use fresh peaches?
Absolutely! Just peel, slice, and cook them with a bit of sugar and water until they’re
soft.
● How long does it stay fresh?
Stored properly, the cake can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Caramel Peach Dump Cake for Special Occasions

This dump cake is versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a
holiday celebration, or just a weekend treat. You can also dress it up with some decorations:

● Decorating Ideas: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar, drizzle extra caramel sauce on
top, or add fresh peach slices for an elegant touch.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and the rich, comforting flavors it delivers.
The combination of peaches and caramel is always a winner, and the ease of preparation
makes it accessible to everyone.

Conclusion

In summary, the caramel peach dump cake is a quick, easy, and delicious dessert that’s
perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up
a dessert that’s sure to impress. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it and refrigerate it before baking. Just bring it to room
temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
You can make your own caramel sauce or use butterscotch or maple syrup as a
substitute.
How do I make it more or less sweet?
Adjust the amount of sugar or caramel sauce to your liking.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
What other fruits work well in this recipe?
Apples, pears, and mixed berries are great alternatives to peaches

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of caramel peach dump cake provides approximately:

Nutrition Facts
(Per serving)
300 12g
Calories Fat
45g 2g
Carbs Protein

To make it a bit healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a sugar substitute in
the recipe.