Description
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
– 1 can pie filling (any flavor)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and pie filling.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
5. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. The cake will have a light, pudding-like consistency with bits of fruit throughout.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
Use a pie filling with chunks of fruit for added texture and flavor.
For a crispier edge, bake a few minutes longer, but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, add the dry cake mix. Create a small well in the center and crack the three large eggs into it. Add the entire can of pie filling on top. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, begin mixing by hand. The batter will be very thick and lumpy initially. Continue folding and stirring for 2-3 minutes until no dry cake mix pockets remain and the fruit is evenly distributed. Avoid using an electric mixer, as it can break down the fruit chunks. Pour the thick batter into the prepared pan and use your spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Place in the center of the preheated oven.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake is delicious on its own but can be elevated with simple toppings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a decadent touch, drizzle with a complementary glaze—a simple powdered sugar and milk mixture works perfectly. If using cherry pie filling, a sprinkle of powdered sugar is elegant. For breakfast or brunch, a dusting of cinnamon sugar adds a lovely finish.
How-to Summary
This incredibly easy dump cake requires just three ingredients and one bowl. Simply combine a box of cake mix, three eggs, and one can of pie filling by hand. Spread the thick, lumpy batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. The result is a unique, pudding-like cake with moist fruit bits throughout and delightfully crispy edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sugar-free or gluten-free cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free or sugar-free cake mix blend. The texture may vary slightly, but the method remains identical.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Fold in up to 1 cup of add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut after the initial batter is mixed.
Why is my batter so thick and difficult to mix?
This is normal. The lack of added oils or liquids creates a very dense batter. Persist with hand-mixing until uniform; this density is key to the cake’s unique texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake’s texture becomes more pudding-like when chilled.
Can I make this in a different sized pan?
A 9×13-inch pan is ideal. Using a smaller pan will require a longer bake time and may result in an undercooked center, while a larger pan will yield a thinner, drier cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing with an Electric Mixer: This destroys the fruit chunks and can make the cake tough. Always mix by hand.
- Adding Extra Liquid: Resist the urge to add water, oil, or milk. The moisture from the eggs and pie filling is sufficient.
- Underbaking: The center should be set. Use the toothpick test—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Not Greasing the Pan: The lack of oil in the batter makes it prone to sticking. Ensure the pan is well-greased.
Conclusion
This three-ingredient miracle cake is a testament to simplicity in baking. It bridges the gap between a dense cake and a fruity pudding, offering incredible flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for unexpected guests, potlucks, or a quick dessert craving, its customizable nature with different pie fillings and cake mix flavors means you can enjoy a new variation every time. Master the simple hand-mixing technique, avoid common pitfalls, and you’ll have a uniquely delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert ready in under an hour.