Just when you thought baking a delicious dessert required hours in the kitchen, along comes this dump cake peach cobbler to prove you wrong. Jam-packed with flavor and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is about to become your go-to for those ‘I need dessert now’ moments.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s incredibly easy to make, with no mixing required—just layer and bake.
- The combination of juicy peaches and buttery cake mix creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- It’s versatile; you can use fresh, frozen, or canned peaches depending on what’s available.
- The recipe is forgiving, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (29 oz each) of peach slices in syrup, undrained
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional, for melting butter)
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly. While the oven heats, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish—no need to grease it, as the butter in the recipe will prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Peaches
Dump both cans of peach slices, including the syrup, into the baking dish. Spread them out evenly. The syrup adds moisture and sweetness, so don’t skip it. Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg over the peaches for that warm, spicy flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the peaches. Do not stir—this is a dump cake, after all. The cake mix will absorb the peach syrup as it bakes, creating a deliciously moist topping.
Step 4: Drizzle with Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy topping. For extra crispiness, you can use a fork to lightly mix the butter with the top layer of cake mix.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the syrup to thicken slightly.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunchy topping, consider adding a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the cake mix. If you’re using fresh peaches, you’ll need about 6 cups sliced and should toss them with 1/2 cup of sugar and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out the juices. For a richer flavor, substitute the butter with browned butter. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract mixed with the peaches can add a lovely depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Bliss: Swap the peaches for mixed berries and use a white cake mix for a summer twist.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Use chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips for a decadent dessert.
- Apple Spice: Replace peaches with apple pie filling and spice cake mix for a fall favorite.
- Tropical Escape: Use pineapple chunks and coconut cake mix, topped with shredded coconut.
- Peanut Butter Lover’s: Mix in peanut butter chips with the cake mix for a nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! You’ll need about 6 cups of sliced peaches. Toss them with 1/2 cup of sugar and let them sit to release their juices before using. This mimics the syrup from canned peaches and ensures your cobbler isn’t dry.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients, like the butter and spices, are gluten-free as well. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Summary
This dump cake peach cobbler is the epitome of easy baking, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dessert that promises to delight every time.
