Cinnamon Sugar Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is the ultimate easy summer dessert—juicy peaches baked under a golden, buttery cake topping with warm cinnamon-sugar flavor. Using boxed cake mix makes this recipe nearly effortless: just layer, bake, and serve. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, this dessert comes out bubbly, fragrant, and irresistibly sweet, perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

Peach Filling:

• 8 cups sliced fresh peaches (about 8 medium)

• ¼ cup organic cane sugar

• ¼ cup organic brown sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ⅛ tsp ground allspice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ lemon, freshly squeezed

Topping:

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• 1 cup salted butter, melted

• ¼ cup organic cane sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Garnish:

• Whipped cream

• Vanilla ice cream

• Caramel sauce

Directions

1. Make peach filling: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, toss peaches with lemon juice, cane sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla until well coated. Spread evenly in prepared dish.

2. Add topping: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over peaches. Pour melted butter over cake mix (some dry spots are fine). Mix cane sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle over top.

3. Bake: Place in the middle rack and bake 55–65 minutes, until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown. For a darker crust, bake an extra 5–10 minutes, watching closely.

4. Serve: Cool slightly, then serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, and caramel sauce.

Nutrients (per serving – 8 servings)

• Calories: 311 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 74 g

• Protein: 3 g

• Total Fat: 2 g

  • Saturated Fat: 1 g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5 g

  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g

• Sodium: 473 mg

• Potassium: 57 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 47 g

• Vitamin A: 3 IU

• Vitamin C: 4 mg

• Calcium: 149 mg

• Iron: 1 mg

Why the “Dump Cake” Method Works So Well

The dump cake technique is all about ease—no mixing bowls full of batter, no complicated steps, and no special equipment required. By layering ingredients directly in the baking dish, the flavors meld as they bake, creating distinct textures without overworking the batter. The dry cake mix absorbs some of the peach juices while the melted butter helps form a golden, crumbly crust. This hands-off approach makes it ideal for busy cooks, beginner bakers, or anyone who wants a delicious dessert without a lot of prep.

The Star of the Show: Peaches

Peaches bring natural sweetness and a juicy texture that defines this dessert. Their flavor deepens as they bake, releasing fragrant juices that soak into the topping for extra moisture and taste. Fresh peaches are a treat when in season, but frozen or canned peaches work beautifully too, ensuring this dessert can be enjoyed year-round. The lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the fruit’s natural flavor.

A Perfect Blend of Warm Spices

The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of allspice infuses the peaches with cozy warmth that makes this cobbler-like dessert irresistible. Cinnamon provides the dominant note, familiar and comforting, while nutmeg adds a slightly sweet, nutty aroma. Allspice brings subtle hints of clove and pepper, rounding out the flavor profile. Together, these spices transform the dessert from simply sweet to deeply aromatic and layered.

The Role of Cake Mix in Creating the Topping

Using boxed yellow cake mix is the key to the recipe’s ease. It forms a tender, slightly crisp crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft peach filling. As the cake mix bakes, it develops golden edges and pockets of buttery richness. Any dry spots left on top caramelize slightly, adding another layer of texture. This shortcut doesn’t just save time—it ensures consistent results every time you make it.

The Magic of Melted Butter

Butter is the ingredient that ties everything together. Poured over the dry cake mix, it seeps into the topping, creating a crisp yet tender finish. The salted variety enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness of the peaches and sugar. As it bakes, the butter helps the topping turn golden brown, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that signals dessert is almost ready.

Cinnamon-Sugar for Extra Sweetness and Crunch

A final sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar before baking is a simple touch that makes a big difference. This extra layer of sweetness bakes into a thin crust on top, adding a delicate crunch that contrasts with the soft cake and fruit. It also enhances the warm spice notes already present in the filling, ensuring the cinnamon flavor is noticeable in every bite.

Versatility for Year-Round Enjoyment

While this dessert shines brightest in summer when peaches are at their peak, its flexibility means you can enjoy it in any season. In fall, you might substitute apples or pears for a different twist, keeping the cinnamon-sugar topping the same. In winter, canned peaches bring a taste of sunshine to cold days. The adaptability of the recipe makes it a staple worth keeping in your dessert repertoire.

Perfect for Entertaining

Cinnamon Sugar Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is a host’s dream dessert. It’s easy to prepare in advance, can be served straight from the baking dish, and pairs well with a variety of toppings. Guests can enjoy it warm with ice cream or whipped cream, or at room temperature for a lighter treat. The generous yield makes it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Experience

While the dessert is delicious on its own, the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the warm peach filling creates a creamy, dreamy combination. Whipped cream adds lightness, while a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the buttery richness. For a more indulgent touch, sprinkle toasted pecans or almonds over the top before serving for added crunch.

A Dessert for All Skill Levels

This recipe is nearly foolproof, making it perfect for new bakers and experienced cooks alike. The straightforward method removes the intimidation factor from baking, yet the results are impressive enough to serve to guests. Even young helpers can participate in layering the ingredients, making it a fun family-friendly baking project.

Leftovers and Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the microwave for a quick treat, or warm them in the oven to restore the crispness of the topping. The dessert can also be frozen for up to two months—just cool it completely before wrapping tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why This Dessert Feels Nostalgic

Part of the charm of Cinnamon Sugar Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is its nostalgic quality. The flavors recall classic cobblers and crisps made by grandmothers and family bakers, but with a modern shortcut that fits today’s busy lifestyles. It’s a dessert that feels familiar and comforting, yet exciting enough to bring to a special occasion.

Customizing the Recipe

The base recipe offers plenty of room for customization. You could experiment with different cake mix flavors, such as white, spice, or butter pecan, to create unique variations. Adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the peach filling brings depth and complexity. For a slightly tart contrast, mix in a handful of raspberries or blackberries with the peaches. Each change keeps the spirit of the dessert intact while making it your own.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Peach Cobbler Dump Cake is proof that an easy dessert can still deliver exceptional flavor and presentation. Juicy peaches, warm spices, and a buttery cake topping combine into a dessert that’s as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing. The simplicity of the dump cake method makes it accessible for any skill level, while the cinnamon-sugar finish and adaptable nature ensure it never gets boring. Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night in, this dessert invites you to slow down and savor the sweetness of the season. Whether enjoyed warm with melting ice cream or cold from the fridge the next day, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.