If you’re craving a dessert that’s effortless yet irresistibly delicious, then the Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This luscious treat combines the rich flavors of classic red velvet cake with a simple “dump and bake” method that saves time and mess without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers moist, decadent bites with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion or dessert craving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple preparation: Just combine a few ingredients and bake—no mixing bowls or fancy techniques required.
- Deliciously moist texture: The combination of cake mix and cream cheese creates an irresistibly tender crumb.
- Stunning appearance: The classic red velvet color adds a festive and inviting look to your dessert table.
- Quick baking time: Ready in under an hour, perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
- Versatile for all occasions: Great for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or simple family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe are straightforward and pantry-friendly. Each plays a special role in delivering that signature combination of flavor, moisture, and sweet tang.
- Red velvet cake mix: The foundation providing that rich cocoa flavor and vibrant color.
- Cream cheese: Adds creamy tang and moisture, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while lending structure to the cake.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps develop a slightly crispy, golden crust.
- Milk or buttermilk: Enhances the cake’s tenderness and complements the red velvet flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor with warm aromatic notes.
- Optional powdered sugar: For dusting or adding a touch of extra sweetness on top.
Variations for Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe
One of the best things about the Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it your own by tailoring ingredients or adding new flavors that suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Chocolate chips: Sprinkle some for pockets of melty chocolate throughout the cake.
- Gluten-free mix: Substitute the regular cake mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Swap buttermilk for regular milk: For a lighter option that still keeps the cake moist.
- Top with cream cheese frosting: Spread a simple frosting for an extra rich finish.
- Add fresh berries: Incorporate raspberries or strawberries to brighten flavors and enhance texture.

How to Make Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Layer the Cake Mix and Cream Cheese
Evenly spread the dry red velvet cake mix into the baking dish, making sure it’s level. Next, softly dollop spoonfuls of cream cheese over the cake mix, distributing it generously for a creamy surprise in every bite.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract together in a separate bowl, then pour this mixture evenly over the cake mix and cream cheese layer for that perfect melding of flavors.
Step 4: Dot Butter on Top
Slice cold butter into small pieces and scatter them across the top. This step helps develop the golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist inside.
Step 5: Bake Until Set
Bake the cake for around 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is firm, slightly browned, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe
- Room temperature ingredients: Let eggs, butter, and cream cheese warm slightly before mixing to prevent lumps and promote even baking.
- Don’t overmix: Keep mixing minimal to maintain texture—just enough to combine ingredients evenly.
- Use fresh cake mix: For best flavor and rise, make sure your cake mix is within its expiration date.
- Cover with foil in the last 10 minutes: To avoid over-browning, tent foil if the top starts getting too dark before the cake is fully baked.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow the cake to cool for 15-20 minutes, so flavors meld and it slices cleanly.
How to Serve Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze beautifully complement the rich red velvet flavors and add a touch of elegance to this easy dessert.
Side Dishes
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to balance the cake’s richness with creamy or tart contrast, making every bite even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming presentation, or layer with mascarpone and berry compote for a red velvet trifle-inspired treat that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This cake freezes well—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving.
Reheating
Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat the whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven covered with foil for 10-15 minutes to preserve moisture and softness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cream cheese instead of the block cream cheese?
Fresh cream cheese spreads or whipped cream cheese can work but may alter the texture slightly; using block cream cheese yields the best balance of creaminess and structure.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dump cake?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, along with almond or oat milk to make this cake vegan and dairy-free while keeping the luscious flavors.
What makes this cake “dump cake” style?
The term “dump cake” refers to the simple process of dumping or layering ingredients directly into a baking dish with minimal mixing or prep, which saves time and reduces dishes.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, keeping an eye on the cooking time which may extend by 10 to 15 minutes depending on the pan size.
Why does my dump cake sometimes turn out soggy?
Overly soggy results often come from adding too much liquid or underbaking—make sure to measure the wet ingredients accurately and bake until the top is set and golden.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, the Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe is your go-to crowd-pleaser. With its sensational flavor, fuss-free prep, and endless customization, it’s a dessert worth keeping in your recipe box for any moment when sweetness calls. Go ahead—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this charmingly simple slice of comfort.
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Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe
The Easy Red Velvet Dump Cake Recipe is a simple and quick dessert that combines the classic rich flavors of red velvet cake with a fuss-free dump and bake method. This moist and decadent cake requires minimal effort and ingredients, delivering a tender crumb with a slightly crispy golden crust. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe yields a visually stunning and delicious treat that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold, sliced into small pieces
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer the Cake Mix and Cream Cheese: Evenly spread the dry red velvet cake mix into the baking dish, making sure it’s level. Next, softly dollop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the cake mix, distributing it generously for a creamy surprise in every bite.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat the eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract together in a separate bowl, then pour this mixture evenly over the cake mix and cream cheese layer for that perfect melding of flavors.
- Dot Butter on Top: Slice cold butter into small pieces and scatter them across the top. This helps develop a golden, slightly crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist inside.
- Bake Until Set: Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is firm, slightly browned, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the top begins to brown too much, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving, which helps flavors meld and ensures clean slices.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure even baking.
- Mix ingredients just enough to combine; overmixing can affect texture.
- Make sure your cake mix is fresh and within expiration date for best rise and flavor.
- If the cake top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Store leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- This cake freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds or whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg