Introduction
Do you know those days when you craved something sweet but couldn’t be bothered by much measuring, mixing, or cleaning? Yep, we’ve all been there. That’s precisely why you need this cheesecake dump cake in your life. It’s the easiest dessert ever—dump everything into a pan, bake, and prepare for some serious deliciousness.
Imagine gooey cheesecake pockets, sweet cherry filling, and a buttery golden crust—all from a recipe that takes less than 10 minutes to throw together. Plus, it’s one of those desserts that looks fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make (because we love a good kitchen shortcut).
Whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a potluck, or just want a little something sweet for movie night, this cheesecake dump cake delivers big flavor with almost zero effort. So grab a baking dish and let’s get to it—you’ll love every bite!
Table of Contents
Why Cheesecake Dump Cake is the Perfect Dessert
A Sweet Treat Without the Hassle
You know those days when you’re craving something sweet but don’t feel like measuring, mixing, or cleaning up a mess? Yep, been there! That’s why cheesecake dump cake is a total game-changer. It’s crazy easy—just dump everything into a pan, bake, and enjoy. No fancy techniques, no stress.
The Best of Both Worlds: Cheesecake Meets Cake
Think of it like this: creamy cheesecake meets gooey fruit filling, all topped with a buttery, golden cake crust. It’s rich, sweet, and totally satisfying. Plus, the texture is out of this world—warm, soft, and slightly crunchy on top.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dessert is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a backyard barbecue, potluck, or cozy movie night, it’s always a hit. Plus, it travels well—just bake it, cover it, and you’re good to go.
So Easy, Anyone Can Make It
The best part? You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen. Seriously—if you can open a box and stir, you’ve got this. It’s also a fun recipe for kids because there’s no tricky measuring or mixing. Just dump, bake, and enjoy!
What Makes Cheesecake Dump Cake Special?
No-Fuss Recipe with Maximum Flavor
Cheesecake dump cake is one of those magical desserts where you get incredible flavor without all the hard work. There’s no need for mixers, fancy tools, or even multiple bowls. Just layer everything in one dish and let the oven do its thing.
A Crowd-Pleaser Every Time
This dessert is always a hit—seriously, I’ve never seen leftovers when I bring it to a party. The creamy cheesecake pockets, fruity filling, and buttery cake topping hit all the right notes. Plus, it’s perfect for every occasion—from holiday dinners to Sunday brunch.
Customizable and Fun to Experiment With
What’s really great about this recipe is how easy it is to switch things up. You can use different cake flavors or fillings depending on what you’re craving. Cherry, blueberry, peach—whatever you love, you can toss it in and make it your own.
Minimal Ingredients, Big Flavor
With just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your pantry—you’ll end up with a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make. But between you and me, it comes together in minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients for Cheesecake Dump Cake
You won’t need a long grocery list for this one—just a few simple ingredients that come together like magic:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix – The secret to that buttery, golden topping.
- 2 packages of cream cheese (softened) – For those dreamy, creamy cheesecake pockets.
- 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz) – Sweet, tart, and packed with flavor.
- 1/2 cup of melted butter – Makes everything rich and golden.
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar – Sweetens up the cheesecake layer.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Because vanilla makes everything better.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
If you’re feeling fancy, here are some fun extras to try:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy flavor.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – For a little crunch.
- Shredded coconut – If you want a tropical twist.
- White chocolate chips – Because why not?
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
The cake mix forms a buttery, crumbly crust, while the cream cheese melts into rich, creamy pockets. The cherry filling adds a sweet, tart balance, and the melted butter pulls everything together into one gooey, golden masterpiece. Trust me—every bite is pure dessert bliss.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Cheesecake Dump Cake
Preheat Your Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. Trust me, this step saves you from a sticky cleanup later!
Spread the Cherry Pie Filling
Open your can of cherry pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Don’t worry about making it perfect—just cover the surface. The cherries will bubble up and blend beautifully with the cheesecake layer.
Add the Cheesecake Layer
Beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth. You can do this with a spoon if you’re like me and hate extra dishes. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture all over the cherry filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect—little pockets of creamy goodness are what make this dessert special.
Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Next, grab your dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the entire dish. Resist the urge to stir! This is a dump cake, after all—layering is key.
Pour the Melted Butter
Now, slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the dry mix as possible. The butter soaks into the cake mix while baking, creating that buttery, golden crust we all love.
Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and the cherry filling is bubbling up around the edges. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible—just a little warning, waiting for it to cool might be the hardest part!
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes. You can serve it warm for a gooey, melty treat or let it chill for a firmer, cheesecake-like texture. Personally, I love it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—because, let’s be real, ice cream makes everything better!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use Cold Cream Cheese for Creamy Pockets
Instead of fully blending the cream cheese into the filling, leave it slightly chunky. This way, you’ll get rich, creamy pockets of cheesecake goodness throughout the cake.
Don’t Stir the Layers
Seriously—resist the urge! Dump cakes are all about layering. The magic happens when the ingredients bake together into gooey, golden perfection.
Cover the Cake Mix Well with Butter
Make sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly across the top. If you see any dry cake mix spots, give them a little extra butter love. This is what gives you that crispy, golden crust.
Let It Cool (If You Can Wait!)
I know, it’s hard! But letting your dump cake sit for about 15 minutes after baking helps it set up and makes serving way easier. Warm and gooey or cool and creamy—it’s delicious either way!
Fun Variations to Try
Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry pie filling.
- Use a lemon cake mix instead of yellow.
- Add a little lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for extra zing.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Use strawberry pie filling.
- Go with a vanilla or white cake mix.
- Top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream before serving.
Chocolate Lover’s Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Switch to chocolate cake mix.
- Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips on top.
- Serve with a drizzle of hot fudge and whipped cream.
Make It Gluten-Free or Lower Sugar
- Use a gluten-free cake mix—easy to find at most grocery stores.
- For a lower sugar option, choose low-sugar pie filling and reduce the sugar in the cream cheese mixture.
Want to experiment with crusts? Discover the secrets of a Keebler Cheesecake Recipe.
How to Serve Cheesecake Dump Cake
Serve It Warm and Gooey
There’s nothing better than digging into a warm slice of cheesecake dump cake—especially with those creamy cheesecake pockets and bubbling fruit filling. For the ultimate experience, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The ice cream melts into the cake, making every bite dreamy.
Try It Chilled for a Cheesecake Vibe
If you prefer a firmer texture (like a classic cheesecake), let the cake cool completely, then refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilled dump cake has a rich, creamy texture that’s perfect for summer gatherings or picnics.
Top It Off with Something Extra
Want to make your cheesecake dump cake even more irresistible? Here are some fun toppings to try:
- Whipped cream – Because more creaminess is always a good idea.
- Caramel drizzle – Adds a sweet, buttery finish.
- Crushed graham crackers – For a little crunch and cheesecake vibes.
- Fresh berries – Bright, juicy flavors that balance the sweetness.
Best Drinks to Pair with Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Coffee or Espresso – The rich, bold flavors of coffee balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Cold Brew Iced Coffee – Especially refreshing if you’re serving the cake chilled.
- Sweet White Wine (like Moscato) – Light, fruity, and perfect with a fruity dessert.
- Milk – A classic pairing because, honestly, sometimes simple is best.
Storing and Reheating Cheesecake Dump Cake
How to Store Cheesecake Dump Cake
- In the Fridge: Store the dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Pro tip: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap if you keep it in the same pan.
- In the Freezer: Want to save some for later? You can freeze your cheesecake dump cake! Place slices in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It keeps well for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Cheesecake Dump Cake
- In the Microwave (Quickest Option): Heat a slice on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. This is perfect if you want it warm and gooey.
- In the Oven (For That Fresh-Baked Feel): Cover the dish with foil and warm it at 325°F for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the top crispy.
- From Frozen: Let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it up using one of the methods above.
Can You Eat Cheesecake Dump Cake Cold?
Totally! Cold cheesecake dump cake has a rich, creamy texture—almost like a cheesecake bar. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want a chilled dessert.
FAQs About Cheesecake Dump Cake
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The biggest mistake is stirring the layers. Dump cakes are meant to be layered, not mixed. When you stir everything together, you lose the crispy, buttery crust on top and the gooey fruit layer underneath. Also, cover the cake mix evenly with melted butter—dry spots are a standard rookie error.
Can you put cream cheese in a dump cake?
Absolutely! Cream cheese is what makes a cheesecake dump cake extra creamy and rich. Just dollop it in small chunks or blend it with a little sugar and vanilla for a cheesecake layer. As the cake bakes, the cream cheese melts into soft, tangy pockets—pure heaven!
Does strawberry cheesecake dump cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because it has cream cheese, you should refrigerate any leftovers. Let the cake cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It actually tastes amazing cold—like a creamy cheesecake dessert!
What’s the difference between a dump cake and a cobbler?
The difference is in the topping!
- Dump Cake: Uses dry cake mix sprinkled over the fruit and then covered with melted butter. It forms a soft, crumbly crust.
- Cobbler: Has a biscuit or pie-like topping—usually more doughy and baked into the fruit.
Both are easy, but dump cakes are typically faster with fewer steps.
Do you eat dump cake warm or cold?
You can enjoy it both ways!
- Warm: Soft, gooey, and perfect with ice cream.
- Cold: Creamy and firm—like a cheesecake bar.
Honestly, try it both ways and see which one you like best!
What is another name for a dump cake?
Another name is a “Lazy Cake” or “Cobbler Cake” because it’s so simple to make—just dump, bake, and enjoy! Some people also call it a “Lazy Cobbler” because of its easy, layered style.
Final Thoughts: Time to Make Your Cheesecake Dump Cake!
So, there you have it—an easy, delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy cheesecake pockets, sweet fruit filling, and a buttery, golden crust, this dump cake will win over everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick to throw together, customizable with your favorite flavors, and practically foolproof—even for beginners. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled straight from the fridge for a creamy cheesecake-like bite, every forkful is pure comfort. It’s the perfect dessert to share at family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable dessert that’s as easy as it is. Happy baking!