27 Easy Dump Cake Recipes That Come Together with Just 3 Ingredients and Zero Fuss

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and position rack center.

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish—I use a sturdy glass 9×13 baking dish.

Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the cherries so it covers them completely.

Dot the top evenly with the cold butter slices so every area has some butter.

Stir the vanilla into the fruit edges if desired for extra flavor and sprinkle the lemon zest, salt, and sugar over the top.

Bake 35–45 minutes until the top is golden and juices are bubbling at the sides; a toothpick into the cake layer should come out with moist crumbs.

Let rest 10 minutes before scooping. Use an offset spatula to portion clean slices.