Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Prepare to be amazed by the easiest, most delicious dessert you’ll ever make! Imagine the creamy, tangy delight of cheesecake swirled together with the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries, all baked into a golden, buttery cake. Sounds divine, right? This isn’t just any cake; it’s a dump cake, which means minimal effort and maximum flavor.

While the exact origins of dump cakes are debated, their popularity stems from their incredible simplicity, especially during busy times. Think of it as a modern twist on classic cobblers and crisps, offering a comforting, home-baked taste without the fuss. This particular Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake variation elevates the concept by incorporating the beloved flavors of cheesecake, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

People adore this dessert for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible – the creamy cheesecake filling perfectly complements the sweet strawberries and the buttery cake topping. Second, the texture is fantastic, offering a delightful combination of soft cake, creamy filling, and slightly crisp edges. But perhaps the biggest draw is the convenience. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a show-stopping dessert ready in under an hour. Get ready to experience dessert bliss!

Ingredients:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (21 ounce) can strawberry pie filling
• 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• Optional: Fresh strawberries, for garnish

Preparing the Cream Cheese Layer:

Okay, let’s start with the creamy, dreamy heart of this dump cake – the cheesecake layer! This is what elevates it from a simple dessert to something truly special. Trust me, it’s super easy.

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: This is crucial! You want your cream cheese to be nice and soft so it blends smoothly. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you start, or even an hour if your kitchen is cool. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, checking and stirring each time, until it’s soft but not melted. We’re aiming for a consistency that’s easy to work with.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a medium-sized bowl, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Now, using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the cream cheese and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. You don’t want any lumps of cream cheese hiding in there!
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix again until just combined. The vanilla adds a lovely warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake layer. Don’t overmix at this point, just enough to incorporate the vanilla.

Assembling the Dump Cake:

Now for the fun part – layering all the delicious components! This is where the “dump” in dump cake comes in. It’s all about simplicity and ease.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to serve.
2. Spread the Strawberry Pie Filling: Pour the entire can of strawberry pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. This creates a sweet and fruity base for the cake. Make sure the filling is distributed uniformly so every bite has that delicious strawberry flavor.
3. Dollop the Cream Cheese Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Try to distribute it evenly in dollops across the surface. You don’t need to completely cover the strawberry filling; the cake mix will fill in the gaps.
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface as much as possible. This is where the magic happens! The dry cake mix will bake into a golden, crumbly topping.
5. Drizzle with Melted Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. This is essential for creating that golden, buttery crust. Try to drizzle it as evenly as possible so that all the cake mix gets moistened. If you see any dry spots, you can gently drizzle a little more butter on those areas.

Baking the Dump Cake:

Time to bake this beauty! The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply irresistible.

1. Bake in the Preheated Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is nicely browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs).
2. Cool Completely: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This is important because the cake needs time to set. If you try to cut into it while it’s still hot, it will be too soft and messy. Cooling it completely will allow the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together.

Finishing Touches:

Almost there! Now for the final flourish that makes this dump cake truly irresistible.

1. Spread with Whipped Topping: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top. This adds a light and airy sweetness that complements the rich cheesecake and fruity strawberry layers.
2. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries for an extra touch of elegance and flavor. Sliced strawberries look beautiful arranged on top of the whipped topping.
3. Chill (Optional): For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further and makes it easier to slice.

Serving and Storage:

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – serving and enjoying this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!

1. Cut and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve. This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature.
2. Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped topping may soften slightly over time, but the cake will still taste delicious.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Different Pie Filling: Experiment with different pie fillings! Blueberry, cherry, apple, or even peach pie filling would all be delicious.
• Different Cake Mix: Try using a white cake mix or a butter pecan cake mix for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before baking for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the cake mix or sprinkle them over the top of the whipped topping for a chocolatey twist.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a more pronounced cheesecake flavor, sprinkle a layer of graham cracker crumbs over the strawberry pie filling before adding the cream cheese mixture.
• Make it a Parfait: Layer the ingredients in individual glasses or jars for a fun and portable dessert.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is truly a dessert revelation, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your regular baking rotation. It’s the perfect solution for those moments when you crave something decadent and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The ease of preparation, combined with the incredible flavor profile – the buttery, golden cake, the creamy cheesecake layer, and the burst of sweet strawberry – makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Seriously, who can resist that combination?

What makes this recipe a must-try is its sheer versatility. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the complex and delightful flavors that emerge after baking. The dump-and-bake method is so forgiving, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. Plus, the minimal cleanup is a huge bonus! I know I always appreciate a recipe that doesn’t leave me with a mountain of dishes.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences. For a richer, more decadent experience, try using cream cheese with a higher fat content. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you could substitute the butter with a butter substitute or even unsweetened applesauce (though the texture might be slightly different).

Serving suggestions are endless! A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates this dessert to another level. For a more sophisticated presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves. You could even drizzle it with a homemade strawberry sauce for an extra burst of fruity flavor.

Consider these variations:

* Berry Medley: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with a mixed berry filling for a more complex flavor profile.
* Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Add a cup of mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for a chocolatey twist.
* Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the cake mix for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cake before baking for added texture and flavor.
* Seasonal Fruit: Adapt the recipe to use seasonal fruits like blueberries in the summer or apples and cinnamon in the fall.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. It’s the perfect dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Please, share your photos and comments with me – I’d love to see your creations and hear about any variations you try. Happy baking! Let me know how your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out!

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June 26, 2025 by Melissa