1. Can I make this Gingerbread Cream Cheese Swirl Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this gingerbread cream cheese swirl dump cake recipe up to a day ahead. Bake it as directed, let it cool, and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply warm it in the oven for that fresh-baked aroma, just like a traditional English ginger cake recipe straight from the oven.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker instead of baking it?

Absolutely! This old-fashioned gingerbread cream cheese swirl dump cake works perfectly in a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for about 2½ to 3 hours or until the center is just set. The result is a soft, pudding-like texture similar to a gingerbread loaf or ginger cake.

3. How can I elevate the flavor of this dump cake?

For a richer, more indulgent dessert, add a dash of espresso or maple syrup to the batter. This enhances the molasses notes and gives your cake a flavor reminiscent of the best gingerbread cake recipe in the world or a gingerbread layer cake with mascarpone cream.

4. Can I add frosting or toppings?

Yes! For a festive twist, top it with whipped mascarpone, cream cheese icing, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. It transforms this easy dessert into a stunning gingerbread cake with spiced cream cheese frosting, perfect for your Christmas gingerbread cake recipe collection.

Gingerbread Cream Cheese Swirl Dump Cake – Best Holiday Dessert 2025

Description

This indulgent holiday dessert combines the warm, spiced flavor of classic gingerbread with ribbons of sweet cream cheese filling. The result? A perfectly balanced treat — soft, creamy, and irresistibly festive.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Gingerbread Layer:

1 cup unsulphured molasses
½ cup hot water
1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon cloves
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1 box spice or yellow cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup melted butter

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make Gingerbread Base:
- In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, hot water, brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter.
- Stir in flour, baking soda, and all the spices until smooth. Pour into the prepared dish.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture over the gingerbread batter, then gently swirl with a knife or toothpick.
Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top — do not stir.
Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter evenly across the cake mix.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden and set.
Cool & Serve: Let cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Notes

Extra Creaminess: Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter swirl texture.
Flavor Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the cream cheese mixture.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, flax eggs, and vegan butter.
Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days; reheat individual portions gently before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American / Holiday