If you’re craving a dessert that’s both quick and delicious, this 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake is your go-to recipe. As the name suggests, it only requires five ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence, with juicy blueberries and a golden, buttery topping.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a fast weeknight dessert, this blueberry dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to make this easy dessert, plus we’ll share variations and expert tips to help you elevate the recipe.
Want to explore more quick desserts? Check out these easy dessert recipes for more inspiration.
Why This 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe is a Must-Try
The simplicity of dump cakes has made them a favorite among home bakers for decades. The concept is easy: you “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer them without mixing, and bake. The result is a warm, gooey dessert with a crispy top that requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor.
This version uses just five key ingredients, and it’s versatile enough to adjust for different tastes. Blueberries offer a tart contrast to the sweet cake mix, while butter creates a rich, crispy top. If you’re looking to get creative, you can easily modify the recipe with other fruits or even add a dash of spice for extra flavor.
For a unique twist on traditional fruit-based desserts, you can also try a Blueberry Grilled Cheese for a savory and sweet treat.
The Ingredients You Need for 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
This recipe only requires five ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry:
- Blueberry Pie Filling: This is the star of the dish, providing a fruity, tart base.
- Fresh Blueberries: For extra texture and flavor, fresh blueberries are added to complement the pie filling.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The boxed cake mix creates the light, fluffy top of the dessert.
- Unsalted Butter: Sliced butter helps form a crispy, golden-brown crust over the cake mix.
- Lemon Zest (optional): While not always included, a little lemon zest can brighten the flavors and complement the blueberries beautifully.
How to Make 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
This dessert couldn’t be easier to make. Here’s how you can prepare it:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Dump the Blueberry Filling
Spread one can of blueberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Scatter 1-2 cups of fresh blueberries on top of the pie filling to add extra texture and flavor.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle a box of yellow cake mix over the blueberries and pie filling. Don’t mix or stir the layers—just let them sit.
Step 4: Add Butter
Cut ¾ cup of unsalted butter into thin slices or pats and distribute them evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter will melt as the cake bakes, forming a golden, crispy topping.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling up around the edges.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
For more easy-to-make dessert ideas like this, check out these quick dessert recipes.
Tips for Perfecting Your 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
Although this cake is simple, here are some tips to help ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Stir the Ingredients: The key to a perfect dump cake is layering the ingredients without mixing. This ensures that the blueberries remain at the bottom while the cake forms a crispy top.
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps create a golden, crispy topping. Slice it thin to ensure even melting over the cake mix.
- Add Zest for Flavor: If you want to elevate the flavor, add lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake mix for extra depth.
- Fresh or Frozen Blueberries?: Fresh blueberries work best for this recipe, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid from affecting the cake’s texture.
- Serve Warm: This cake is best served warm, straight out of the oven. The contrast between the warm fruit and crispy topping is unbeatable when paired with cold ice cream.
Delicious Variations of 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, here are some fun variations you can try:
5 Ingredient Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake
For a refreshing twist, use lemon cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. The lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the tartness of the blueberries, creating a bright and tangy dessert.
5 Ingredient Pineapple Blueberry Dump Cake
Add a can of crushed pineapple (with juice) to the bottom layer along with the blueberry pie filling for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the tart blueberries for a balanced flavor.
5 Ingredient Peach Blueberry Dump Cake
Substitute half of the blueberry pie filling with peach pie filling to create a peach-blueberry flavor combo that’s juicy and sweet.
Spiced Blueberry Dump Cake
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix before baking for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.
Nutritional Breakdown for 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
Here’s the nutritional content for a typical serving of this 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake:
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
This dessert is undeniably indulgent, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-sugar pie filling or a sugar-free cake mix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Blueberry Pie Filling?
If you don’t have blueberry pie filling, you can use fresh or frozen blueberries with some sugar and a thickener like cornstarch to create a similar filling.
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?
Absolutely! You can use any cake mix flavor that complements blueberries, such as lemon, vanilla, or even chocolate for a unique twist.
How Should I Store Leftover Blueberry Dump Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Does This Cake Need to Be Refrigerated After Baking?
Yes, if you have leftovers, it’s best to refrigerate them. The cake can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Advanced Tips to Take Your 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake to the Next Level
Want to impress your guests with an elevated version of this simple dessert? Here are some advanced tips to enhance your 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake:
- Brown the Butter: Brown the butter in a pan before adding it to the cake. The nutty flavor of browned butter adds depth and richness to the dessert.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or oats over the cake mix before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Use Spiced Sugar: Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle over the butter pats before baking to create a caramelized, spiced topping.
Serving Suggestions for 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake
This 5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake is versatile and pairs well with many other flavors. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, fruity flavors of the cake perfectly.
- With Whipped Cream: A light, fluffy dollop of whipped cream adds a fresh contrast to the rich, buttery topping.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy the cake alongside a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea for a relaxing dessert experience.
For more ideas on pairing sweet treats with savory dishes, check out this guide to Breakfast Pizza for creative meal combinations.
Conclusion
5 Ingredient Blueberry Dump Cake is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves quick, easy desserts. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, homemade dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this dump cake is a foolproof way to impress your friends and family.
For more quick and delicious dessert ideas, be sure to check out these fun and easy dessert recipes.
Looking to learn more about the world of baking? Visit Wikipedia’s page on baking for a deeper dive into the techniques and history behind your favorite desserts.