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When the holiday season hits, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen for hours while everyone else is opening presents and sipping cocoa. This Crockpot Red Velvet Dump Cake is the ultimate Christmas miracle for busy hosts. It transforms three simple pantry staples into a decadent, warm, and festive dessert that practically makes itself. With its deep crimson hue and rich chocolatey undertones, it looks stunning on a holiday spread and tastes like you spent all morning baking. Just dump the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it until your house smells like a professional bakery.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: 10 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
Nutrition values
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 52g
Why Make This Crockpot Red Velvet Dump Cake Christmas Easy 3 Ingredient Holiday
This recipe is a game-changer for holiday entertaining. First, it frees up your oven for the turkey or ham, which is prime real estate during Christmas dinner. Second, the “dump” method requires zero bowls or whisks, meaning cleanup is a breeze. The slow cooker creates a unique texture that is somewhere between a moist cake and a warm cobbler, making it incredibly comforting on a cold winter night. Plus, the vibrant red color fits the Christmas theme perfectly without requiring any artificial dyes or complex decorating skills.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Red Velvet Cake Mix
- 1 can (21 oz) Cherry Pie Filling (or Chocolate Fudge Filling)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, thinly sliced or melted
Directions
Step 1: Preparation
Generously grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Open the can of cherry pie filling and pour it directly into the bottom of the crockpot. Use a spoon to spread it out into an even layer so every bite gets a bit of fruit.
Step 2: Layering the Cake
Sprinkle the dry red velvet cake mix evenly over the top of the pie filling. Do not stir the layers together; keeping them separate is the secret to a perfect dump cake. If you see large clumps of cake mix, gently break them up with a fork. Place the thin slices of butter over the entire surface of the cake mix, covering as much area as possible. Alternatively, pour melted butter slowly over the top for even coverage.
Step 3: Cooking
Place a clean paper towel across the top of the slow cooker before putting the lid on. This catches excess condensation and prevents the cake from getting soggy. Set the crockpot to Low and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or on High for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The cake is ready when the edges are bubbling and the center is set.
Step 4: Serving
Turn off the slow cooker and let the cake sit uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly. Scoop the warm cake into bowls and top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the perfect holiday treat.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Red Velvet Dump Cake Christmas Easy 3 Ingredient Holiday
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, use the paper towel trick mentioned in the directions. It is the single most important step for a “cake” texture rather than a “pudding” texture. Also, try to use a 6-quart slow cooker for the best surface-area-to-depth ratio. If you want a richer flavor, use high-quality butter rather than margarine. Finally, don’t be tempted to peek! Opening the lid lets out heat and steam, which can increase your cooking time significantly.
Delicious Variations
While the 3-ingredient version is classic, you can easily customize this dessert. Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of the cake mix for an extra cocoa punch. If you love a crunch, sprinkle half a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts over the butter layer. For a true Red Velvet experience, whisk together some cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk to create a quick glaze and drizzle it over the finished cake while it is still warm.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in the oven instead?
Yes, you can bake this in a 9×13 inch baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 to 45 minutes. The texture will be slightly crispier on top than the slow cooker version.
Do I need to follow the instructions on the back of the cake box?
No, ignore the box instructions. You do not need eggs, oil, or water. Only use the dry mix as part of the “dump” process.
What if I don’t like cherry pie filling?
You can substitute the cherry filling with chocolate pudding, raspberry pie filling, or even a can of crushed pineapples for a different flavor profile that still pairs well with red velvet.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds to restore the warm, gooey texture.
Can I use salted butter?
You can use salted butter if that is what you have on hand. The slight saltiness actually balances the sweetness of the cake mix and fruit filling quite nicely.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Red Velvet Dump Cake is the ultimate stress-free dessert for your Christmas celebration. It combines the deep, iconic flavor of red velvet with the effortless convenience of a slow cooker. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or just want a cozy treat by the fireplace, this 3-ingredient wonder delivers every time. Serve it warm with a side of ice cream, and watch it disappear faster than Santa on Christmas morning!

Crockpot Red Velvet Dump Cake Christmas Easy 3 Ingredient Holiday
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Red Velvet Cake Mix
- 1 can (21 oz) Cherry Pie Filling (or Chocolate Fudge Filling)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, thinly sliced or melted
Instructions
- Generously grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Open the can of cherry pie filling and pour it directly into the bottom of the crockpot. Use a spoon to spread it out into an even layer so every bite gets a bit of fruit.
- Sprinkle the dry red velvet cake mix evenly over the top of the pie filling. Do not stir the layers together; keeping them separate is the secret to a perfect dump cake. If you see large clumps of cake mix, gently break them up with a fork. Place the thin slices of butter over the entire surface of the cake mix, covering as much area as possible. Alternatively, pour melted butter slowly over the top for even coverage.
- Place a clean paper towel across the top of the slow cooker before putting the lid on. This catches excess condensation and prevents the cake from getting soggy. Set the crockpot to Low and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or on High for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The cake is ready when the edges are bubbling and the center is set.
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the cake sit uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly. Scoop the warm cake into bowls and top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the perfect holiday treat.
- Cook Time: 2 hours 35 minutes









