This slow cooker 3-ingredient Shirley Temple dump cake is the kind of easy dessert that feels a little nostalgic and a little playful all at once. Inspired by the bright cherry-citrus flavor of the classic Shirley Temple drink, it comes together with almost no fuss and turns into a warm, bubbly treat with a golden buttery topping. It is especially nice in the summer when you want something cheerful for cookouts, potlucks, or family dinners without heating up the oven.
Serve this dump cake warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a spoonful of extra cherries on top. For a fun party dessert, pair it with grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue chicken, since the sweet-tart cherry flavor makes a refreshing finish after a savory meal. If you are setting out a dessert table, it also goes nicely with fresh strawberries, pineapple, or glasses of lemon-lime soda.
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Shirley Temple Dump Cake
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix
2 cans cherry pie filling, 21 ounces each
3/4 cup lemon-lime soda
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter to help prevent sticking.
2. Spoon both cans of cherry pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry filling, covering the top as completely as you can.
4. Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda all over the cake mix, moistening as much of the surface as possible. Do not stir.
5. Cover and cook on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or on low for 4 hours, until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the top is set with golden patches.
6. Turn off the slow cooker, let the dump cake rest for 10 to 15 minutes, then scoop and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Extra Cherry Flavor: If your family loves a stronger Shirley Temple taste, add a spoonful of chopped maraschino cherries to the filling before the cake mix goes on top. It gives the dessert a brighter cherry flavor and a fun pop of color.
For a Crispier Top: If you like more texture, lay a clean paper towel under the slow cooker lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to catch extra moisture. Be careful when removing the lid, and keep the towel away from the heating element.
Make It Kid-Friendly to Serve: This dessert can be very soft and gooey right out of the cooker, so let it rest a bit before scooping. That short cooling time helps the filling thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion for parties or family dinners.
Try a Different Cake Mix: White cake mix or cherry chip cake mix both work well here if you want to change the flavor a little. White cake keeps the cherry flavor front and center, while cherry chip makes the whole dessert even more festive.
Add a Simple Topping: A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few extra cherries on top can make this easy dessert feel special enough for birthdays, cookouts, and Sunday suppers.