Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that makes people ask for seconds and the recipe. It’s easy, foolproof, and ridiculously satisfying—whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the dessert world.

Unlike traditional cobblers that require mixing, kneading, or prepping a biscuit or pie topping, a dump cake keeps things ultra-simple. Just layer the ingredients in a pan—literally “dump” them in—and let the oven do all the work. No need to dirty a mixing bowl!

What really sets this dessert apart is its magical texture. The sweet, syrupy peaches bubble up from below while the cake mix forms a golden, buttery crust on top. It’s a beautiful marriage of gooey and crisp—like a peach cobbler and buttery cake had a delicious baby.

And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor. Dump cakes have been around for decades, often passed down through generations at potlucks, church socials, and holiday dinners. They feel like home.

Whether you’ve got last-minute guests, need a low-stress dessert for a busy weeknight, or want something special with minimal effort, this one-pan wonder never disappoints.

What Is Peach Cobbler Dump Cake?

At its core, a dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make. It involves “dumping” a few ingredients—usually canned fruit, boxed cake mix, and butter—into a baking dish, layering them (no mixing required!), and baking until golden and bubbly.

So what makes it a cobbler? While it doesn’t have the traditional biscuit topping of a Southern cobbler, this version mimics the cozy, fruity flavors with a buttery crust formed from cake mix. You get that comfort-food feel, but with a lot less effort.

One of the best parts? Peach cobbler dump cake works beautifully with canned, fresh, or even frozen fruit. The natural juices from the peaches create a luscious filling, while the dry cake mix soaks up moisture and crisps on top.

If you’re short on time—or just not in the mood for fussy baking—this dessert has your back.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to pull off this peachy masterpiece:

Canned peaches: They’re the MVP. Choose peaches in juice for a lighter flavor or syrup for extra sweetness.
Fresh or frozen peaches: Want a more homemade touch? Fresh peaches (peeled and sliced) work great when in season. Frozen ones should be thawed and drained first to prevent sogginess.
Yellow cake mix: The classic go-to. You can also use white or vanilla cake mix for subtle flavor shifts. Feeling adventurous? Try a homemade dry mix—but for ease, boxed works perfectly.
Butter: Use unsalted if possible, since canned peaches can be sweet and some cake mixes already include salt. Slice it thinly and scatter over the top, or melt it and drizzle evenly.
Optional add-ins:
- A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch

Bold tip: Do not stir the layers. Just dump, layer, and bake. The oven will work its magic without your help.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make It

Making peach cobbler dump cake is a breeze. Here’s how it comes together:

Preheat and prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Layer the peaches
Dump in your canned peaches—juice and all. Spread them evenly in the pan. If using fresh or frozen, make sure they’re lightly sweetened and juicy. Add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla if desired.
Add the cake mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the peaches. No mixing! Just let it sit on top in a nice, even layer.
Top with butter
Slice 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter into thin pats and place them evenly across the surface. Alternatively, melt the butter and drizzle it all over—just make sure the mix is covered so it bakes up golden and crisp.
Optional toppings
Want extra crunch or sweetness? Sprinkle some brown sugar or chopped nuts over the top before baking.
Bake
Pop it in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. No need to cover—it bakes best uncovered so the topping can crisp.

Expert tip: For an ultra-crispy top, use cold butter and slice it thin. This creates beautiful golden patches as it melts during baking.

Let it cool slightly before serving. The filling thickens as it sits, making it easier to scoop and even better with ice cream!

Best Peach Varieties for This Cake

The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is with peach choices.

Canned peaches are the go-to for simplicity. Choose those packed in juice for a more natural flavor, or syrup if you want it extra sweet and sticky.
Fresh peaches shine when they’re in season. Yellow cling peaches are juicier and more flavorful, while freestone peaches are easier to slice and handle. You’ll need to peel and slice them beforehand.
Frozen peaches are a great year-round option. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using—excess moisture can lead to a soggy bottom layer.
In a real rush? You can even use peach pie filling, though it’s thicker and sweeter, so you may want to cut back on added sugar or butter.

Quick tip: If your fruit looks dry, drizzle in a bit of water or juice so there’s enough liquid to help the cake mix bake properly.

Easy Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, it’s time to get creative! Here are some fun and delicious ways to remix your peach cobbler dump cake:

Fresh Peach Dump Cake
Swap canned peaches for sliced, peeled fresh peaches tossed with a bit of sugar and lemon juice. This adds a vibrant, juicy bite and works best during peach season.
Peach and Berry Combo
Add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a burst of tartness that complements the peaches beautifully.

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Peach Pecan Dump Cake
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for a toasty, crunchy finish. They add texture and a Southern touch.
Sugar-Free or Low-Carb Adaptation
Use canned peaches in juice (not syrup), a sugar-free cake mix, and a sugar-free sweetener blend for a lower-sugar version. Perfect for those cutting back.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter and a vegan-friendly cake mix (check labels carefully!). You’ll still get that buttery topping and gooey peach filling—no eggs needed.

Bold idea: These tweaks make it easy to adapt the dessert to any taste or dietary need!

What to Serve With Peach Cobbler Dump Cake

This cake is a star on its own—but pairing it with the right topping takes it to dessert heaven.

Vanilla ice cream is the classic go-to. The creamy cold melt paired with the warm peach filling? Unbeatable.
For something lighter, try whipped cream or cool whip. They add airiness without overwhelming the dessert.
Crème fraîche or a spoonful of Greek yogurt gives a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness.
Feeling fancy? Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a splash of bourbon glaze for a grown-up twist.

Pro tip: Serve it warm with a chilled topping—the contrast in temperature makes every bite irresistible!

This cake also pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet wine for a cozy after-dinner moment.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it fits into your schedule.

Make-ahead: You can assemble the layers (except butter) a few hours ahead and store the dish covered in the fridge. Add the butter just before baking. Avoid letting the cake mix soak too long before baking or it may get soggy.
Reheating:
- Oven: Cover loosely with foil and reheat at 325°F for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use short bursts (30 seconds at a time) to avoid drying it out.
Freezing:
- Baked: Let it cool completely, slice into portions, and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Unbaked: Not recommended—the cake mix doesn’t hold well raw in the freezer.
Fridge life: Keeps well for 3–5 days in an airtight container. The topping may soften, but it’s still delicious.

Bold tip: Bake it in disposable aluminum pans to freeze or gift to friends—it travels and stores beautifully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have a few sneaky traps. Here’s what to watch for:

Stirring the layers
Don’t do it! The beauty of a dump cake is in the layers. Stirring messes with the texture and structure.
Too much liquid from canned peaches
If your peaches are swimming in syrup, drain a little off. Too much liquid can make the bottom soggy.
Uneven butter coverage
If you don’t spread the butter evenly, you’ll end up with dry patches of cake mix. Slice thin or melt for better coverage.
Overbaking or underbaking
Look for a golden top and bubbling edges. If it’s too pale or wet in the middle, give it another 5–10 minutes.
Using the wrong pan size
A dish that’s too small or too deep can mess with the bake time and texture. Stick with a 9×13-inch pan for best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh peaches add a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor. Peel, slice, and toss them with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to mimic the syrupiness of canned fruit. Be sure they’re juicy—if not, add a splash of water or juice to help the cake mix bake properly.

Why is it called a dump cake?
The name comes from the method—you simply dump the ingredients into a pan, no mixing required. It’s a shortcut recipe born out of convenience, and despite the name, it delivers rich, homemade flavor every time.

Can I make peach dump cake in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients just as you would in a baking dish, then cook on low for 2–3 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours, until the top is set and golden around the edges.

Why is my dump cake runny or soggy?
Too much liquid is the usual culprit—either from syrup-packed peaches or underbaking. Make sure you drain off some liquid if needed, and always bake until the top is fully golden and bubbling.

What’s the difference between dump cake and cobbler?
A cobbler typically has a biscuit or pie dough topping, while a dump cake uses dry cake mix and butter to form a crust. Dump cakes are quicker and more beginner-friendly.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You can! Use a large baking dish (or two 9×13 pans) and increase baking time slightly. Check for golden color and bubbling fruit before pulling it from the oven.

Final Thoughts + Encouragement to Try It

Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is the ultimate easy comfort dessert. It’s fast, flexible, and always a hit—whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a crowd, or craving something sweet on a Wednesday night.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own. Add your favorite fruits, play with spices, or go full Southern with pecans and a bourbon drizzle.

Tried it already? Leave a comment below and tell us your favorite twist—or what you served it with! Want more easy desserts? Check out our Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake or Rhubarb Dump Cake for your next sweet fix.