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Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s incredibly easy to make yet tastes like it came from a bakery, Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake is the answer. This irresistible dessert combines sweet cherry pie filling, juicy crushed pineapple, a rich cheesecake layer, buttery cake topping, and a golden, crisp finish that practically melts in your mouth. Every spoonful delivers the perfect balance of fruity sweetness, creamy richness, and buttery crunch.
Dump cakes have long been a favorite among American home bakers because they require minimal effort while producing consistently delicious results. This version takes the classic dump cake to the next level by adding a smooth cheesecake filling that creates layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re preparing dessert for a holiday dinner, summer barbecue, potluck, or casual family gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to become a crowd favorite.
A Family Favorite That Never Lasts Long
Some desserts disappear almost as quickly as they’re served, and this one always tops the list. The combination of tart cherries, tropical pineapple, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake creates a dessert that’s comforting, nostalgic, and surprisingly elegant despite how simple it is to prepare.
Best of all, there’s no complicated mixing or decorating involved. Simply layer the ingredients, bake until golden and bubbly, and enjoy a homemade dessert that’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Why This Recipe Works
Simple pantry staples create a dessert full of flavor.
- Cherry pie filling adds vibrant sweetness and beautiful color.
- Crushed pineapple brings freshness and natural juiciness.
- Cream cheese creates a rich cheesecake layer.
- Yellow cake mix forms a buttery, golden topping.
- Melted butter ensures a crisp, evenly baked crust.
- Everything comes together in one baking dish with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cherry pie filling | 2 (21-ounce) cans |
| Crushed pineapple, undrained | 1 (20-ounce) can |
Cheesecake Layer
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Granulated sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Large egg | 1 |
Cake Topping
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 (15.25-ounce) box |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 3/4 cup |
Optional Garnishes
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whipped cream | For serving |
| Vanilla ice cream | For serving |
| Maraschino cherries | For garnish |
| Chopped pecans or walnuts | 1/2 cup |
Ingredient Notes
- Do not drain the crushed pineapple, as the juice helps keep the cake moist.
- Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest cheesecake texture.
- White cake mix or butter cake mix can be substituted for yellow cake mix.
- Toasted pecans add a delicious crunchy contrast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. |
| 2 | Spread the crushed pineapple, including its juice, evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple without mixing the layers. |
| 3 | In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy. |
| 4 | Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the fruit layer. Gently spread if needed, leaving some fruit visible. |
| 5 | Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the entire surface without stirring. |
| 6 | Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible for even browning. |
| 7 | Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges. |
| 8 | Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired. |
Troubleshooting and Pro Tips
- Cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible with melted butter to avoid dry patches.
- Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing for the smoothest cheesecake layer.
- Let the dessert rest before serving so the layers can set properly.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for extra crunch.
- Bake until the edges are bubbling and the top is evenly golden.
Variations
This Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake is easy to customize.
- Use strawberry, blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling instead of cherry.
- Replace the yellow cake mix with white, butter pecan, or spice cake mix.
- Add shredded coconut for a tropical variation.
- Mix mini white chocolate chips into the cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the cake mix before baking for extra warmth.
- Top with toasted almonds or pecans for additional texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even cheesecake-flavored ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, hot coffee, espresso, or a cup of tea, making it equally suitable for holiday dinners, potlucks, birthdays, and weekend family desserts.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds, or enjoy them chilled. The dessert can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Approximate values per serving, based on 12 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
| Sodium | 330 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 57 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 37 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and optional toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the dessert a day ahead, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Warm individual portions before serving or enjoy it chilled.
Can I freeze this dump cake?
Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Why are there dry patches on top?
This usually happens when some of the cake mix isn’t covered with butter. Drizzle the butter evenly across the entire surface before baking.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to cook them with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick fruit filling similar to canned cherry pie filling.
What other fruit combinations work well?
Peach and blueberry, apple and cranberry, strawberry and rhubarb, or pineapple and peach all make delicious variations of this recipe.
Conclusion
This Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake combines juicy fruit, creamy cheesecake, buttery cake topping, and effortless preparation into one unforgettable dessert. It’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want an impressive homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. If your recipe site includes star ratings, we’d love for you to leave a review to help other home bakers. Share a photo of your finished Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake on social media and follow along for more easy dessert recipes, classic dump cakes, and comforting homemade sweets that everyone will enjoy.
Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this delightful Cherry Pineapple Cheesecake Dump Cake. This easy dessert combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the vibrant tastes of cherries and pineapple, making it a perfect choice for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Next, spread the crushed pineapple on top of the cherry filling, ensuring it is evenly layered.
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the pineapple layer. It doesn’t have to cover it completely; it will spread while baking.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Do not mix.
Finally, pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Recipe Reviews
- ★★★★★
Excellent recipe!
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Excellent recipe!