easy banana dump cake

Craving a no-fuss dessert that’s loaded with flavor and takes minimal effort? Let me introduce you to my Easy Banana Dump Cake — a warm, gooey, comfort-packed treat that’s perfect for using up ripe bananas.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or just short on time, this one-pan wonder is your answer to a quick and indulgent sweet fix.

Featuring layers of soft bananas, crunchy pecans, rich evaporated milk, and a cinnamon swirl crumb cake mix, this dessert practically makes itself. And with no mixing bowls required, cleanup is just as easy as the baking!

Ingredients List

This easy banana dump cake requires only a handful of pantry staples and ripe bananas to deliver big flavor with little effort.

Main Ingredients

• 5 large (or 6–7 medium) very ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 (21-ounce) box Krusteaz Cinnamon Swirl Crumb Cake & Muffin Mix
  (See Notes section below for alternatives)
• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) salted butter, sliced into thin squares

Optional Toppings (for serving)

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Extra sliced bananas
• Additional chopped pecans
• Caramel sauce
• Chocolate sauce or hot fudge sauce

This combination gives you a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery goodness in every bite.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into baking, here are the basic kitchen tools you’ll need for a seamless experience:

1. 9×13-inch baking dish – Glass or ceramic works great. Make sure it’s well-greased or sprayed with nonstick spray.
2. Sharp knife – For slicing bananas and butter evenly.
3. Measuring cup – To portion the evaporated milk.
4. Spatula or spoon (optional) – For spreading layers evenly, though stirring is a no-no in this dump cake!

Layering the Dump Cake

Making this easy banana dump cake truly lives up to its name — everything gets dumped into one dish, no stirring or mixing needed. Just follow these simple steps for a foolproof dessert every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it well with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer the bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas in an even layer across the bottom of the baking dish. Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
3. Sprinkle the pecans: Scatter the chopped pecans over the banana slices. This adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast to the soft bananas.
4. Pour the evaporated milk: Drizzle the entire can of evaporated milk evenly over the bananas and nuts. This step helps to keep the cake moist and rich during baking.
5. Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry cinnamon swirl cake mix evenly over the top — don’t stir it in. The dry mix will absorb moisture from below and create that classic dump cake crust on top.
6. Top with the cinnamon streusel: If your cake mix includes a cinnamon streusel pouch (like Krusteaz), sprinkle it on top of the dry cake mix. For a less-sweet finish, you can use just ½ to ¾ of the pouch.
7. Layer the butter slices: Place the thinly sliced butter pieces evenly across the entire surface. These will melt and soak through the dry mix, helping it brown beautifully.
8. Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the edges bubbly.
9. Check for dry spots: If you see any powdery dry patches after baking, simply lay a few more pats of butter on those areas and return to the oven for 2–3 more minutes.

Once it’s baked, the bananas will have softened into a custardy layer, and the cake topping will be buttery and crisp — pure dump cake magic.

Serving and Customization

The beauty of this easy banana dump cake is not just in how simple it is to make — it’s also incredibly versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion, your mood, or what’s in your pantry.

How to Serve Banana Dump Cake

This dessert is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The soft banana base and crispy cake topping are a match made in comfort food heaven. Serve it in bowls or on dessert plates with one (or more) of these delicious additions:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream – The cold creaminess melts into the warm cake for an irresistible combo.
• Whipped cream – Light and fluffy, it adds a lovely contrast to the dense banana filling.
• Extra banana slices – Great for presentation and added banana flavor.
• Drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce – Perfect for extra indulgence and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle a few more toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.

Optional Mix-Ins and Variations

Want to change things up a bit? Try these easy swaps and flavor upgrades:

• No pecans? Use chopped walnuts or slivered almonds. Or leave the nuts out entirely for a nut-free version.
• Different cake mix? If you don’t have cinnamon swirl mix on hand, use a yellow, white, or spice cake mix. Just note:
  • Use 1 cup of evaporated milk (instead of the full 12 oz can) for smaller cake mix boxes (like 15.25 oz).
  • Sprinkle ¼ cup of cinnamon-sugar over the bananas, and another 2 tablespoons on top of the dry mix to mimic the cinnamon streusel effect.
• Add chocolate chips or caramel bits for a fun, gooey twist.
• Add a teaspoon of vanilla or a dash of cinnamon to the bananas before layering for extra depth of flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this banana dump cake delivers on taste and simplicity.

Storage Instructions

Whether you’re making this for a gathering or just to satisfy a weeknight craving, knowing how to store your banana dump cake properly will help you enjoy every last bite.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your banana dump cake fresh:

• Refrigerate: Allow the cake to cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or pop the entire dish in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes to restore that fresh-baked texture.

Can You Freeze Banana Dump Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it — though the texture of the bananas may soften even more once thawed.

• Let the dump cake cool fully.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

This easy banana dump cake is everything you want in a homemade dessert — simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you’ll have a gooey banana base topped with a crisp, buttery cake layer that tastes like something much more complicated.

It’s the perfect way to use up ripe bananas, impress guests with minimal effort, or treat yourself to a cozy, quick-bake indulgence. Whether served warm with ice cream or straight from the fridge as a late-night snack, this dump cake always hits the spot.

Now that you know the steps, grab those bananas and get baking — you’re just one pan away from your next favorite dessert!