Black Forest Dump Cake Recipe

Time: 40–50 minutes
Best For: Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, beginners, patrols
Setting: Outdoor, campsite, charcoal fire
Prep Level: Very easy
Mess Level: Low
Skill Focus: Dutch oven cooking, layering, heat control, teamwork
Cleanup Level: Low
Advancement: Cooking skills, outdoor cooking requirements
Equipment: Dutch oven, charcoal, tongs, gloves, spoon
Serves: Group

Cooking at camp is one of the best parts of Scouting. It gives youth a chance to work together, follow directions, and enjoy the reward of their efforts. A simple recipe like Black Forest Dump Cake helps new cooks learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed. They get to see how a few easy steps can turn into something warm and delicious to share with friends.

Making this dessert also teaches teamwork. Scouts can take turns gathering ingredients, preparing the Dutch oven, and watching the coals. Everyone has a job to do, and the group can enjoy the results together. Sharing food builds friendship and helps Scouts feel proud of what they made.

This recipe encourages creativity too. Once Scouts learn the basic method, they can try other combinations like peaches with white cake or pineapple with yellow cake. It’s a fun way to learn how small changes can make a big difference in cooking. Each new mix brings a surprise and a chance to learn something new.

Cooking a dessert like this also builds confidence. When youth see that they can make a tasty treat outdoors with simple tools, it gives them courage to try more. Success in cooking helps them believe in their ability to learn new things. And best of all, it ends with a sweet treat everyone enjoys together around the campfire.

The Black Forest Dump Cake connects well with Scouting because it teaches skills that go beyond cooking. Scouts learn to plan ahead, work with others, and use the tools they have. Making this dessert around the campfire helps them practice patience and teamwork. They see that everyone’s small effort adds up to something good.

This recipe also shows the value of resourcefulness. Scouts learn how to cook outdoors using simple ingredients and a Dutch oven. They see that you don’t need fancy equipment to make something delicious. It’s a great example of how creativity and problem-solving can make camp life easier and more enjoyable.

Sharing the finished dessert helps build community. When Scouts sit together and enjoy what they made, they build stronger bonds. Cooking and eating together brings smiles and laughter. It reminds everyone that Scouting is not only about learning skills but also about friendship and fun.

Equipment and Materials

• Dutch oven
• Charcoal and lighter
• Charcoal chimney or fire ring
• Long tongs
• Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves
• Large spoon for serving
• Aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup)

Ingredients

• 2 cans cherry pie filling
• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 stick butter
• Ice cream or whipped topping (optional for serving)

Setup Instructions

1. Prepare your charcoal. You will need about 28 coals total.
2. If you want easier cleanup, line the Dutch oven with aluminum foil.
3. Gather all ingredients and utensils before you start cooking.
4. Make sure your cooking area is clear and safe. Keep water nearby in case of emergencies.

Recipe Instructions

1. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the Dutch oven.
2. Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix over the pie filling. Do not stir.
3. Slice the butter into thin pieces and lay them evenly on top of the cake mix.
4. Place about 12 hot coals under the Dutch oven and about 16 on the lid.
5. Cook for about 40 minutes, until the cake is hot and bubbly.
6. Carefully remove the lid using tongs or gloves. Let the dessert cool slightly.
7. Serve with ice cream or whipped topping if available.

Notes and Variations

• Try other flavors like pineapple with yellow cake or peaches with white cake.
• Always handle hot coals and the Dutch oven with care to avoid burns.
• Do not touch the metal lid or sides without gloves.
• Make sure all coals are fully extinguished when done cooking.

Click here for a printable copy of the Black Forest Dump Cake recipe

Dutch Oven Cooking

If your Scouts liked this Black Forest Dump Cake, they will enjoy trying more Dutch oven recipes. Dutch oven cooking is a favorite in Scouting because it is simple, fun, and rewarding. With a few ingredients and some hot coals, Scouts can make everything from breakfast to dessert. It teaches planning, teamwork, and patience while creating tasty food to share.

Visit my Dutch Oven Cooking page to explore more recipes and tips for camp cooking. You will find ideas for main dishes, sides, and treats that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Each recipe is easy enough for Scouts to follow and helps them build confidence at camp.

Here are some more Dutch oven dessert recipes to enjoy:

• Lemon Berry Dutch Oven Cobbler
• Ding Dong Cherry Cobbler
• Pumpkin Crunch

Black Forest Cobbler Video

What Scouts Learn Beyond the Meal

What is a Black Forest Dump Cake?

A Black Forest Dump Cake is a simple dessert made with chocolate cake mix, cherry pie filling, and butter. Everything is layered in a Dutch oven and cooked over hot coals until warm and bubbly.

Can I make Black Forest Dump Cake without a Dutch oven?

Yes. You can bake it in a regular oven at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Use a 9×13-inch pan and follow the same steps.

How do I know when the Black Forest Dump Cake is done?

The cake is ready when it looks melted and bubbly around the edges. The top should look cooked, not powdery.

Can I use other pie fillings?

You can use peaches, blueberries, or pineapple for different flavors. The method is the same as the Black Forest Dump Cake recipe.

How should I serve it?

Serve the Black Forest Dump Cake warm with whipped topping or ice cream. It tastes best right after cooking.

Black Forest Dump Cake is a favorite treat for Scouts because it’s so easy to make. It only takes three main ingredients—cherry pie filling, chocolate cake mix, and butter. Scouts can put it together in minutes and then wait while the Dutch oven does the work. The smell of chocolate and cherries cooking over the fire makes everyone eager for dessert.

This recipe helps Scouts practice cooking outdoors. It teaches patience and teamwork as they prepare coals, handle the Dutch oven safely, and share tasks. Everyone can join in, from beginners to experienced campers. The best part comes when the lid is lifted, and the warm dessert is ready to serve.

Black Forest Dump Cake also brings people together. Sitting around the campfire and enjoying something homemade builds friendship and happy memories. It’s a simple dessert that reminds Scouts how satisfying it is to cook and share food outdoors.