Remove the pan from the oven and let the dump cake cool on the counter for at least 10–15 minutes. This helps the cherry layer thicken slightly while still staying warm and gooey under the crumbly topping.
Serve warm, scooping out portions with a large spoon so you get both the glossy cherry filling and the golden, buttery crumbs in every serving. Watch it closely at gatherings—it tends to disappear fast, so snag your scoop early if you want leftovers.
For a slightly less sweet version, use one can of cherry pie filling and one can of tart cherries (drained) tossed with 2–3 tablespoons of sugar before spreading in the pan. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds over the cake mix before drizzling on the butter. You can also swap the yellow cake mix for white, butter, or even lemon cake mix for a different flavor twist. To make individual servings, divide everything between 8–10 greased ramekins and bake 5–10 minutes less, watching for a golden top and bubbly edges. For a make-ahead option, assemble the dish up to the point of adding the butter, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours; drizzle with butter right before baking. Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) keep well covered in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven at 325°F until warm and bubbly again.