If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by dessert options for a family gathering, look no further than Grandma’s Black Forest Cream Cheese Dump Cake. This delightful dessert combines rich chocolate cake, tart cherries, and creamy cheese in a way that’s both simple and sophisticated. Imagine cutting into a slice and revealing layers of luscious flavors that meld beautifully together, creating a nostalgic experience that takes you back to Grandma’s kitchen with every bite.
This cake is a clever twist on the classic black forest cake recipe. It’s ideal for those who want a show-stopping dessert without spending the entire afternoon in the kitchen. It embodies the spirit of indulgent chocolate desserts while remaining approachable for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply treating your family to something special, this cake will be a hit. You can learn more about this topic.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chocolate cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz, softened |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (for frosting) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp (for frosting) |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup (for frosting) |
Note: For a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix available in most grocery stores. If you prefer a lighter frosting, consider using whipped topping instead of the cream cheese frosting. Check out our related guide for more tips.
Steps / Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. |
| 2 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and milk. Mix until well combined, about 2 minutes on medium speed. Don’t rush this part; ensure there are no lumps for a smoother texture. |
| 3 | Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula. |
| 4 | In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then swirl it gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. |
| 5 | Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, followed by the remaining cake batter on top. |
| 6 | Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the batter. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. |
| 7 | While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy. |
| 8 | Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before spreading the frosting on top. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. |
Troubleshooting / Pro Tips
- For a denser cake, use less water than specified on the cake mix box.
- If the cherry filling sinks to the bottom, try gently folding it into the batter instead of layering it.
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother frosting.
- Store leftovers well covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I freeze it, and how do I reheat it properly? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
What can I serve with this? This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
Why did my cake turn out dry? Ensure you measure the ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures can vary.
Strong CTA
I encourage you to give Grandma’s Black Forest Cream Cheese Dump Cake a try at your next gathering. Your friends and family will be raving about it, and I’d love to hear their thoughts! Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos on social media. For more delicious dessert ideas, subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for more delightful recipes!
Grandma’s Black Forest Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This delightful dessert combines rich chocolate cake, tart cherries, and creamy cheese in a way that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and milk. Mix until well combined, about 2 minutes on medium speed.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then swirl it gently with a knife.
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, followed by the remaining cake batter on top.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the batter. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy.
Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before spreading the frosting on top. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Recipe Reviews
- ★★★★★
Excellent recipe!
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Excellent recipe!