Cherry cheesecake dump cake is one of the easiest and most delicious desserts you can make with minimal effort. This indulgent treat combines the tartness of cherries, the richness of cheesecake, and the buttery texture of cake mix into a single dish that practically makes itself. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this recipe is foolproof and perfect for any occasion.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best cherry cheesecake dump cake, from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips and troubleshooting.
Table of Contents
What is Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Cherry cheesecake dump cake is a quick and effortless dessert that requires just a few simple ingredients. Unlike traditional cakes, this dessert doesn’t require mixing, beating, or precise layering. Instead, everything is simply “dumped” into a baking dish and baked to perfection.
Why is it Called a Dump Cake?
The term “dump cake” comes from the process of making it—where you literally dump all the ingredients into a pan without mixing and let the oven do the work.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Super easy – No need for a mixer or complicated steps.
- Minimal ingredients – Requires just five basic pantry staples.
- Crowd-pleaser – A hit at parties, family dinners, and potlucks.
- Customizable – You can swap out ingredients to create different flavors.
Ingredients Needed
To make this simple yet irresistible cherry cheesecake dump cake, you will need just five ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry pie filling | 2 cans (21 oz each) | Provides a tart and fruity base. |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (whipped) | Adds a rich and creamy texture. |
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box | White cake mix can also be used. |
| Butter | ½ cup (melted) | Helps create a crispy, buttery topping. |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1 tsp | Enhances the flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect cherry cheesecake dump cake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
- Open the two cans of cherry pie filling and pour them into the baking dish.
- Spread the cherries evenly across the bottom using a spatula.
Step 4: Layer the Cream Cheese
- Drop spoonfuls of whipped cream cheese on top of the cherry filling.
- Try to distribute it evenly so each bite has a mix of flavors.
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherry and cream cheese layers.
- Do not mix it—just spread it evenly.
Step 6: Pour the Melted Butter
- Slowly drizzle melted butter over the cake mix.
- Try to cover as much surface as possible to avoid dry spots.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Looking for a romantic dessert idea? Try these chocolate-covered strawberries to pair with your cherry cheesecake dump cake.
Tips for Making the Perfect Dump Cake
To make your cherry cheesecake dump cake even more delicious, follow these tips:
- Use quality ingredients – Choose a high-quality cherry pie filling and real cream cheese for the best flavor.
- Spread ingredients evenly – This ensures each bite has a balance of flavors.
- Don’t mix – The layers bake perfectly when left untouched.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet cake, use unsweetened cherries and add a pinch of salt.
- Enhance the flavor – Add almond extract for a deeper cherry flavor.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even though this is a simple recipe, mistakes can happen. Here’s how to avoid them:
1. Why is My Dump Cake Powdery?
- Issue: The cake mix didn’t fully absorb the butter.
- Fix: Add more melted butter or use thin slices of butter to cover the entire surface.
2. Why is My Dump Cake Too Runny?
- Issue: The cake wasn’t baked long enough.
- Fix: Extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes until the top is golden and firm.
3. Why Did My Cake Burn on Top?
- Issue: The butter wasn’t evenly distributed.
- Fix: Cover loosely with foil if the top is browning too fast.
5-Ingredient Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Easy & Delicious!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Description
This easy Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delicious, no-fuss dessert made with just five simple ingredients. The combination of tart cherries, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a quick family treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 box yellow cake mix (white cake mix works too)
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer ingredients: Spread cherry pie filling in the dish, drop spoonfuls of whipped cream cheese on top, and sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over everything.
- Add butter: Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool for 5-10 minutes and enjoy warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or shredded coconut before baking.
- Prefer a less sweet cake? Use unsweetened cherry filling or reduce the amount of pie filling.
- Want more cheesecake flavor? Use softened block cream cheese instead of whipped.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: cherry cheesecake dump cake, easy dump cake, cherry cream cheese dessert, 5-ingredient dessert
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How Long Does Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake Last?
- Fridge: Store covered in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
FAQs cherry cheesecake dump cake
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
Not using enough butter or spreading it unevenly, which results in dry, powdery spots.
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because you “dump” all ingredients into the baking dish without mixing.
Can you leave a dump cake out overnight?
No, especially with cream cheese—it must be refrigerated within two hours.
How long does cherry cheesecake dump cake last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Why is my dump cake powdery?
The butter wasn’t evenly distributed, leaving dry cake mix patches.
What are five faults in cake making?
Sunken middle – Opening the oven too early.
Dry texture – Not enough liquid or fat.
Dense cake – Overmixing or expired baking powder.
Soggy bottom – Undercooking or too much liquid.
Cracks on top – Oven too hot.
Conclusion
Cherry cheesecake dump cake is one of the easiest and most satisfying desserts you can make. With just five ingredients, you get a rich, fruity, and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a party, family gathering, or a solo treat, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time.
Try it today and enjoy a slice of sweet, cherry-filled goodness!