Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

If you’re in search of a dessert that’s both indulgent and incredibly easy to make, look no further than this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Combining the luscious flavors of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery, golden cake topping, this dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. As the name suggests, this cake is all about simplicity—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the rest. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a casual weeknight treat, this dump cake requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how quickly this dessert comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy it with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make—no complex mixing, folding, or precise measurements required. The result is a dessert that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, with a rich, creamy cheesecake layer that perfectly balances the sweet and tart strawberry filling. The buttery cake topping, made from a boxed cake mix, adds a satisfying crunch and golden finish. Plus, this dessert is highly versatile—you can swap in different pie fillings, add fresh fruits, or experiment with various cake flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an impressive yet easy dessert, this dump cake is guaranteed to be a hit.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 28g

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
• 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for garnish)
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Strawberry Filling: Pour both cans of strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the entire bottom is covered.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
4. Add the Cheesecake Layer: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling in dollops, and then gently spread it to create an even layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; it will spread more as it bakes.
5. Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cream cheese layer, making sure it covers the entire surface of the dish. This dry layer will transform into a delicious, golden crust during baking.
6. Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible, as this will help the cake mix bake into a crispy, golden topping.
7. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cake should have a slightly crisp top, and the edges should be bubbling with the strawberry filling.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries for garnish, if desired.

Ingredient Background

Strawberry Pie Filling

Strawberry pie filling is the star ingredient in this dump cake, offering a sweet and slightly tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer. It’s a convenient and flavorful shortcut that eliminates the need for fresh strawberries, although fresh strawberries can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Cream Cheese

The cream cheese in this recipe creates a rich and creamy cheesecake layer that adds depth and contrast to the sweet strawberry filling. When softened and mixed with sugar and vanilla, it creates a smooth, tangy base that complements the other layers.

Yellow Cake Mix

Using a boxed yellow cake mix simplifies the baking process and guarantees a delicious, fluffy cake topping. The mix combines beautifully with melted butter to create a golden, buttery crust that adds texture and flavor to the dessert.

Butter

Melted butter is drizzled over the dry cake mix to ensure it bakes into a crispy, flavorful crust. It’s important to evenly distribute the butter to cover as much of the dry mix as possible for a uniform golden topping.

Technique Tips

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to blend evenly with the sugar and vanilla.
• Even Butter Distribution: Drizzle the melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix to help the topping bake into a cohesive, crispy layer. You can use a spoon or a small measuring cup to pour the butter more precisely.
• Check for Doneness: The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If the top isn’t browning evenly, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the dump cake in individual ramekins or dessert cups. Simply divide the strawberry filling, cream cheese mixture, and cake mix into smaller portions before baking. This creates beautifully portioned desserts that are perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. Garnish each ramekin with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice for a restaurant-quality look.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Allowing the cream cheese and butter to come to room temperature ensures they mix more easily and evenly, resulting in a smoother cheesecake layer and a well-distributed topping.
• Prevent Soggy Topping: To avoid a soggy topping, make sure to drizzle the butter evenly over the dry cake mix and bake until the top is fully golden brown. If necessary, bake a few extra minutes to ensure a crisp crust.
• Customize the Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings or cake mix flavors to create new variations of this dessert. Cherry pie filling and chocolate cake mix, for example, would make a decadent chocolate cherry dump cake.

Recipe Variations

• Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with blueberry pie filling and use a white or lemon cake mix for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Peach Cobbler Dump Cake: Use peach pie filling and a spice cake mix for a warm, comforting dessert reminiscent of a classic peach cobbler.
• Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake: Add a layer of chocolate chips over the strawberry pie filling before adding the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey variation. You can also use a chocolate cake mix for the topping.

Freezing and Storage

To store leftover dump cake, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the dump cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

For a lighter version of this dessert, you can make a few adjustments. Use a reduced-sugar or sugar-free strawberry pie filling, light cream cheese, and a sugar-free cake mix. You can also reduce the amount of butter by half and replace it with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat and calories while still maintaining a moist topping.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-indulgent treat. You can also set up a DIY dessert bar, offering toppings like crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, or caramel sauce, allowing guests to customize their servings.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and a little cornstarch to create a sauce-like consistency similar to pie filling.

Do I need to mix the cake mix before adding it?

No, the beauty of a dump cake is that you use the dry cake mix as-is, sprinkling it over the cheesecake layer and then adding the melted butter to create the topping.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can use white, vanilla, or even a lemon cake mix for a different flavor profile. Each will bring a unique twist to the dessert.

What can I use as a butter substitute?

You can use margarine or even coconut oil in place of butter, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Unsweetened applesauce can also be used as a lower-fat alternative.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If you’re unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the cake topping—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped peaches for additional flavor and texture. Simply mix them in with the strawberry pie filling before layering.

How long can I store this dessert?

The dump cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Is this dessert best served warm or cold?

This dessert can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you prefer a firmer texture, allow it to cool completely before serving. For a gooier, more indulgent dessert, serve it warm.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines the comforting flavors of cheesecake and fruit with the simplicity of a dump cake. Perfect for any occasion, it requires minimal prep and delivers a deliciously rich and satisfying treat. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just treating yourself, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the effortless indulgence of this delightful cake!

Print