What if you could enjoy the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity punch of cherry pie in just under an hour? This cherry cheesecake dump cake proves that gourmet flavor doesn’t require gourmet effort. With simple pantry staples and a no-fuss preparation, this dessert is a dream for busy bakers and sweet-toothed enthusiasts alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Easy: No need for mixers or layers—just dump, bake, and enjoy.
- Deliciously Decadent: Creamy cheesecake meets sweet cherries under a golden cake crust.
- Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a quick weekday treat.
- Minimal Prep: Only 5 minutes of hands-on time!
Ingredients
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla cake mix
- 10 tablespoons butter, melted
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Cherries: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Mix the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add the Cheesecake Layer: Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cherries. Gently spread it out without blending the layers.
- Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
- Finish with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly across the top of the cake mix.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake stand for 10 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Stir the Layers: Keeping the layers distinct helps achieve that layered cheesecake texture.
- Even Butter Distribution: Ensures the cake mix cooks evenly; consider slicing butter into pats if you prefer.
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even more irresistible.
Substitutions and Variations
- Fruit Fillings: Swap cherry for blueberry, apple, or peach pie filling.
- Cake Mix Flavors: Try white, yellow, or even lemon cake mix for different flavor profiles.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to sweeten and cook them down into a compote first.
Is it necessary to use vanilla cake mix?
No, but vanilla complements the cheesecake layer well. Other options work, too!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s great served the next day, either cold or gently reheated.
Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
Yes, because of the cream cheese layer, it’s best to store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze cherry cheesecake dump cake?
Yes, cool the cake completely, wrap tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Why is it called a “dump cake”?
It’s called a “dump cake” because the ingredients are simply layered into the baking dish without stirring—making it a truly effortless dessert.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or enjoy cold for a cheesecake-style treat.
Conclusion
This cherry cheesecake dump cake is your go-to dessert when time is short, but cravings run deep. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Try it today and let us know what variations you come up with—or browse more of our easy dessert recipes for your next baking inspiration!
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Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings 1x
Description
Cherry cheesecake dump cake is the ultimate quick-fix dessert. Layers of cherry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping come together in one pan—no mixing, no hassle. Make it in under an hour and enjoy a crowd-pleasing sweet treat!
Ingredients
1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla cake mix
10 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Cherries: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Mix the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add the Cheesecake Layer: Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cherries. Gently spread it out without blending the layers.
- Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
- Finish with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly across the top of the cake mix.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake stand for 10 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Do not mix the layers—this creates the signature dump cake texture.
Use different pie fillings and cake mixes to create fun flavor combos.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes + Time: 10 minutes resting
- Cook Time: 40 minutes