Craving a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with fruity flavors? Enter the Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake–a decadent dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of cherries, the smooth creaminess of cheesecake, and the buttery crispness of a cake all in one.
The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients, and you won’t even have to break out your mixer. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this simple recipe will wow your family and friends with minimal effort.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make an easy Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake with detailed instructions, helpful tips, and ideas to customize it to your taste. Prepare to level up your dessert game with a recipe that’s as indulgent as it is easy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and pre-made items you likely already have on hand.
- Quick Prep: No complicated techniques or fancy gadgets—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the flavors with different fruits, cake mixes, or add-ins.
Now, let’s get started on this fuss-free dessert that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Ingredient Notes
- Cherry Pie Filling – The tartness of cherries pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheesecake layer, but you can swap in other pie fillings like blueberry, apple, or peaches for a twist.
- Cake Mix – Vanilla or yellow cake mix works best; however, white or even butter cake mix can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese – Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Butter – Use real unsalted butter for the richest flavor and perfectly golden topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Spread the Cherry Pie Filling
Pour the can of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Layer
- In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the mixture over the cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the layers of cherry and cream cheese. Don’t mix it—this is a dump cake, after all!
Step 5: Pour the Butter
Slowly pour the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring as much of the surface is covered as possible. This will create the crispy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the dump cake to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls or cut into slices, and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy mixing, and the butter is fully melted before pouring over the cake mix.
- Customize the Flavors: Try swapping the cherry pie filling for strawberry or raspberry, or use chocolate cake mix for a black forest-inspired version.
- Top It Off: Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut, cinnamon sugar, or chopped pecans before baking for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dump cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes! To make your own cherry filling, cook 4 cups of pitted cherries with ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until thickened.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely—simply replace the regular cake mix with a gluten-free variety. Ensure other ingredients like the cherry pie filling are also labeled gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I freeze the dump cake?
Yes, you can freeze the dump cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why Dump Cakes Are a Dessert Hero
Dump cakes are the ultimate dessert hero—effortless yet indulgent! Perfect for busy weeknights or to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a standout because it’s the ideal mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy.
Try It Today!
Whether you're entertaining guests, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect fuss-free dessert. With a few pantry ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
Love this recipe and want more inspiration? Keep baking with us by signing up for our email newsletter—your next favorite recipe might be waiting in your inbox.
إرسال تعليق