If you love desserts that combine simplicity with irresistible flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. It’s one of those magic dishes where you basically let the oven do the work, layering luscious strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake goodness, and moist yellow cake mix into a beautiful, golden-bubbly treat. The best part? It’s quick to throw together, yet delivers a show-stopping dessert perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the bright sweetness of strawberry pie filling to the rich creaminess of cream cheese, every component plays a crucial role in making this dessert unforgettable.
- Yellow cake mix: The base layer that bakes into a soft, golden cake with a light crumb perfect for soaking up the fillings.
- Strawberry pie filling: Packed with juicy fruit, it adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled on top for moisture and an irresistible golden crust.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides a rich, tangy layer that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture just right without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Helps achieve that creamy, smooth texture in the cheesecake mix.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the cake won’t stick and makes serving effortless. Greasing the dish well guarantees a perfect slice every time.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This juicy layer will infuse the cake with bright berry flavor and moisture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer coming next.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. This rich mixture will form the luscious mid-layer that makes this dump cake feel extra special.
Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling, gently spreading it out. This layer acts as a luscious bridge between the fruity bottom and the cakey top, ensuring every bite is a harmonious blend of textures.
Step 5: Top with Cake Mix
Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This dry layer bakes into the perfect golden crust, soaking up the flavors beneath without turning soggy. It’s the secret to the dump cake’s trademark crumbly top.
Step 6: Drizzle Melted Butter
Generously drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix layer. This step might seem small, but it’s essential for that beautiful golden color and a moist, tender crumb that will have you coming back for seconds.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the assembled dish for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see bubbling strawberry juices around the edges. The aroma from your oven during this time alone is worth the wait!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to cut and enhances the flavors as they meld beautifully together.
How to Serve Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the creamy cold contrast is heavenly against the warm cake. For a fresh twist, scatter some sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers on top.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé for an elegant touch. If serving at brunch, try it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance indulgence with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve the dump cake in individual ramekins or mason jars—perfect for parties or picnics. You can also turn it into a trifle by layering chunks of the baked cake with whipped cream and fresh berries in clear glasses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen wonderfully overnight, so you might find it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
This cake freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the whole pan in the oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. Adding a scoop of ice cream after reheating makes it extra special.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be a lovely substitution. Just toss them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to achieve the same sweet, juicy effect as the pie filling.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Yes, you can swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring to check any other ingredients for gluten-free labels. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
With some tweaks, yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and a plant-based milk substitute. Make sure your cake mix fits vegan requirements as well.
Why is it called a dump cake?
The name comes from the simplicity of the preparation—ingredients are literally dumped into the baking dish in layers, making it one of the easiest desserts to whip up!
How can I make the top crust crispier?
Try increasing the melted butter slightly or broiling the cake for a couple of minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug—comforting, sweet, and downright delicious. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an experienced pro, it’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your arsenal for quick, impressive desserts. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to become one of your new favorites to share with friends and family.
Print
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines the luscious flavors of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry pie filling topped with a golden yellow cake mix crust. Simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this no-fuss dessert bakes up moist and delicious in under an hour.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can strawberry pie filling (approx. 21 ounces)
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix (approx. 15.25 ounces)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer Strawberry Filling: Evenly spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful base.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, without lumps.
- Spread Cheesecake Layer: Pour and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling layer in the baking dish.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
- Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the sprinkled cake mix to help it bake into a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- You can substitute strawberry pie filling with other flavors like cherry or blueberry if preferred.
- This dump cake is great served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
