Baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This cinnamon sugar peach cobbler dump cake is proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the most comforting desserts. Perfect for those days when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s incredibly easy to make, with no mixing bowls required—just layer and bake!
- The combination of juicy peaches and warm cinnamon sugar creates a irresistible flavor profile.
- It uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime the craving strikes.
- The cake topping gets perfectly crisp on top while staying soft and cakey underneath.
- It’s versatile—serve it warm with ice cream for dessert or enjoy it cold for breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 can (29 oz) peach slices in syrup, undrained
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 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
Pour the entire can of peach slices, syrup and all, into the bottom of the baking dish. Spread them out evenly with a spoon. This juicy layer will become the base of your cobbler, so make sure it’s distributed well.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly 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. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible to ensure every bit gets golden and crispy. This step is crucial for that perfect texture contrast.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar
Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of the buttered cake mix. This will give your cobbler that signature sweet and spicy crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The smell of cinnamon and peaches will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost time to eat.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy top, broil the cobbler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch it closely to prevent burning. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cinnamon sugar mixture. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. If you’re using fresh peaches, you’ll need about 4 cups sliced and should add 1/2 cup of water or peach juice to the dish to compensate for the lack of syrup.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the peaches for apple pie filling and add a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for a fall-inspired version.
- Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow and add a layer of chocolate chips under the cake mix for a decadent twist.
- Add a layer of cream cheese between the peaches and cake mix for a creamy surprise in every bite.
- Top the baked cobbler with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- For a tropical twist, use pineapple chunks in juice and coconut cake mix, then sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! You’ll need about 4 cups of sliced fresh peaches. Since fresh peaches don’t come in syrup, add 1/2 cup of water or peach juice to the baking dish to ensure there’s enough moisture for the cake mix to absorb. You might also want to sprinkle a little extra sugar over the peaches if they’re not very sweet.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version. Just make sure all your other ingredients, like the cinnamon and butter, are certified gluten-free if you’re serving someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Summary
This cinnamon sugar peach cobbler dump cake is the epitome of easy baking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
