Introduction

Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake, the sweet-tart flavor of cherries, and the buttery goodness of a classic dump cake. This incredibly easy recipe requires minimal preparation yet delivers maximum flavor, making it a favorite for busy bakers, holiday gatherings, potlucks, family dinners, and last-minute dessert cravings.

Dump cakes have earned their popularity because they are virtually foolproof. Unlike traditional cakes that require mixing, measuring, and multiple bowls, a dump cake is simply layered in a baking dish and baked to perfection. The result is a dessert with a warm fruit filling, creamy cheesecake pockets, and a golden buttery topping that tastes like a combination of cobbler, cheesecake, and cake all in one bite.

What sets Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake apart from other dump cakes is the addition of cream cheese. As the cake bakes, the cream cheese softens into rich, velvety layers that blend beautifully with the juicy cherry filling. The sweet cherries provide a bright fruit flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the cheesecake layer.

This dessert is especially popular during holidays because it can be assembled in minutes while still looking and tasting impressive. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled for a more cheesecake-like texture, Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake always receives rave reviews.

Another wonderful feature of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different pie fillings, cake mix flavors, nuts, or chocolate chips. Despite its simplicity, the flavor is rich enough to satisfy even the most devoted dessert lovers.

If you’re looking for an easy dessert that delivers bakery-style flavor with almost no effort, Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect recipe. One bite of the creamy cheesecake, juicy cherries, and buttery topping will have everyone asking for seconds.

---

Ingredients

🍒 For the Dump Cake

• 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Toppings

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Fresh cherries
• White chocolate shavings
• Powdered sugar

---

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.

Spread both cans of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine:

• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract

Beat until smooth and creamy.

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture over the cherry pie filling.

Gently spread where possible.

---

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherry and cheesecake layers.

Do not stir.

Keep the layers separate.

---

Step 4: Add the Butter

Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.

Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.

This helps create a crisp golden topping.

---

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake for 45–55 minutes.

The cake is ready when:

• The top is golden brown
• The filling is bubbling around the edges

Allow to cool for 15–20 minutes before serving.

---

Variation

1. Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Replace cherry pie filling with strawberry pie filling.

2. Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Use blueberry pie filling.

3. Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Cake

Add chocolate chips between layers.

4. Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake

Mix crushed pineapple into the cherry filling.

5. Pecan Cheesecake Dump Cake

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cake mix.

6. White Chocolate Cherry Cake

Add white chocolate chips before baking.

---

COOKING Note

• Use room-temperature cream cheese.
• Do not mix the layers together.
• Cover most of the cake mix with butter.
• Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
• Refrigerate leftovers due to the cream cheese layer.
• Full-fat cream cheese creates the richest texture.

---

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

• Warm with vanilla ice cream
• Chilled like cheesecake
• With whipped cream
• During holiday dinners
• At potluck gatherings
• With coffee or tea
• For Valentine’s Day desserts
• At family celebrations

---

Tips

• Use high-quality cherry pie filling.
• Add almond extract for a bakery-style cherry flavor.
• Toast chopped pecans for extra crunch.
• Chill leftovers overnight for a firmer cheesecake texture.
• Use white cake mix for a lighter flavor.
• Let the dessert rest before slicing.
• Store tightly covered in the refrigerator.

---

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

50 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

---

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Calories: 470

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 390mg

Carbohydrates: 64g

Sugar: 40g

Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 12g

Fiber: 1g

---

FAQs

Can I make Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes. It can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.

Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Absolutely. Homemade filling works wonderfully.

Why is my topping powdery?

Not enough butter may have covered the cake mix.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Yes. Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes. White, vanilla, butter pecan, and French vanilla cake mixes work beautifully.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes. It tastes similar to cherry cheesecake when chilled.

Can I add nuts?

Yes. Pecans, walnuts, or almonds make excellent additions.

---

Conclusion

Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a wonderfully simple dessert that combines juicy cherries, creamy cheesecake filling, and a buttery golden topping into one irresistible treat. Easy enough for beginner bakers yet delicious enough for special occasions, it offers the perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and comfort.

Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled for a cheesecake-like experience, this crowd-pleasing dessert is guaranteed to become a family favorite. One bite of the creamy cherries and buttery cake topping, and you’ll understand why Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake remains one of the easiest and most loved desserts around. 🍒🍰✨❤️

Print