Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is one of the easiest layered desserts you can make — no mixer, no complicated steps, and minimal prep. It combines sweet strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake pockets, and a buttery cake topping that bakes into a golden, slightly crisp crust.
It’s the perfect dessert when you need something impressive but effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Only a few ingredients
-
No complicated mixing
-
Great for beginners
-
Perfect for potlucks and holidays
-
Creamy and fruity in every bite
-
Customizable
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
Serves 10–12
Calories (Approximate)
About 380–480 calories per serving, depending on portion size.
Ingredients
-
2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
-
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional:
-
Fresh sliced strawberries
-
Whipped cream for serving
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread the Strawberry Layer
Pour both cans of strawberry pie filling into the baking dish.
Spread evenly across the bottom.
If using fresh strawberries, gently fold them into the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a bowl, mix together:
-
Softened cream cheese
-
Sugar
-
Vanilla
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Drop spoonfuls of this mixture evenly over the strawberry layer.
Do not fully spread — small pockets create a cheesecake swirl effect.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the entire surface.
Do not stir.
Step 5: Add Melted Butter
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible for even browning.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Cool Slightly
Let rest for about 20 minutes before serving.
It will thicken slightly as it cools.
Expert Tips
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Cold cream cheese will create lumps.
Cover Dry Cake Spots
If you notice dry patches halfway through baking, drizzle a little more melted butter.
Don’t Stir the Layers
Dump cakes are layered, not mixed.
Serve Warm
The texture is best slightly warm with creamy filling.
Flavor Variations
Strawberry White Chocolate
Add white chocolate chips on top before baking.
Mixed Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Replace one can of strawberry filling with blueberry or cherry.
Lemon Strawberry
Use lemon cake mix for a bright twist.
Chocolate Strawberry Version
Use chocolate cake mix for a richer dessert.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
-
Whipped cream
-
Vanilla ice cream
-
Fresh strawberries
-
Powdered sugar dusting
Because it’s rich and sweet, moderate portions are ideal.
Texture Breakdown
Bottom Layer: Sweet, juicy strawberries
Middle Layer: Creamy cheesecake pockets
Top Layer: Buttery, golden cake crumble
Each spoonful delivers a mix of fruit, creaminess, and crisp topping.
Make-Ahead Friendly
You can assemble the dessert a few hours before baking and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the freshest texture.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is simple, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that feels homemade and indulgent.