If you love desserts that are as delightful to make as they are to eat, you are going to adore this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. It is a wonderfully simple yet impressive dessert that combines the lusciousness of creamy cheesecake with the bright, fresh flavor of strawberries and the ease of a dump cake. With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and delivers a crowd-pleasing, beautifully layered treat that looks like it took hours of effort but actually requires just minutes of prep. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and strawberry-forward with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe plays a crucial role to bring that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tangy cream cheese base to the juicy strawberry filling and the sweet, crumbly cake topping, each element is essential yet wonderfully straightforward.
- Strawberry cake mix: Acts as the crumbly, sweet topping with vibrant strawberry flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps crisp up the cake topping beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened: Creates the smooth and creamy layer that balances sweetness with tang.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture without grit for a silky finish.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, floral note.
- Strawberry pie filling: Provides a luscious, saucy fruit layer bursting with strawberry goodness.
- Whipped cream: Optional, but perfect for a light, airy garnish.
- Fresh strawberries: Freshen up the dessert and add a pop of color and texture on top.
How to Make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). A consistent medium heat ensures the layers cook evenly, developing that beautiful golden top without drying out the creamy filling underneath. While the oven warms, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer
While the oven preheats, mix the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat them together until everything is smooth and fluffy. This step is essential to create a creamy, sweet layer that will blend perfectly with the strawberry filling below. Using softened cream cheese helps you achieve that silky texture effortlessly.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now, take your prepared baking pan and start layering. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly on the bottom to create a juicy base full of fruity flavor. Then, gently spoon the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to swirl it in slightly. This marbling adds visual interest and ensures every bite has a perfect balance.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix evenly over the creamy layers. Distributing it well ensures an even crumb topping once baked, delivering a satisfying crunch and strawberry taste with every forkful.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. It might seem simple, but this step is key for creating that golden, crispy crust on top while keeping the interior moist and rich. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible for consistent browning.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges to bubble and the top to turn a lovely golden brown. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This cooling helps the layers set for clean, beautiful slices that highlight the luscious strawberry and cheesecake layers.
How to Serve No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To take your dessert to the next level, dollop some whipped cream over each slice for a light, airy finish. Fresh strawberries scattered on top not only boost the strawberry flavor but add a gorgeous, inviting pop of color. Mint leaves can also be added for a subtle fresh aroma and a bright visual touch.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you want a lighter contrast, serve it alongside a simple fresh fruit salad or a cup of hot herbal tea to balance the richness of the cheesecake dump cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for a pretty personal dessert, perfect for dinner parties. Another fun idea is to layer it in a glass trifle bowl, so the creamy, fruity, and crumbly layers shine through beautifully, pleasing both the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake should be covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Chilling allows the flavors to meld even more, offering a slightly firmer texture for those who enjoy it cold.
Freezing
You can freeze this dump cake to enjoy later. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving chilled.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or place the entire pan in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Reheating brings back the cake’s soft, gooey consistency, making it feel freshly made all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the strawberry cake mix enhances the strawberry flavor beautifully, other flavors like white or yellow cake mix can be used to create delicious variations. Just be mindful that the topping flavor will change accordingly.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is important. It helps the mixture blend smoothly with powdered sugar and vanilla, preventing lumps and ensuring a creamy, luscious layer in the cake.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
You can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free strawberry cake mix and ensuring your pie filling is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work great in dump cakes.
How do I prevent the cake topping from getting soggy?
Drizzling melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix is key to crisping the topping. Also, avoid stirring the layers once assembled and bake at the proper temperature to maintain distinct textures.
Can I prepare this dessert in smaller portions?
Yes, you can scale down the recipe and bake it in smaller pans or individual ramekins. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for the golden color and bubbling edges as cues for doneness.
Final Thoughts
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is truly a treasure for any home baker who loves quick, fuss-free desserts without compromising flavor or presentation. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the sweet, bright goodness of strawberries paired with smooth cheesecake and a tender crumb topping. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to an effortless, unforgettable dessert!
Print
No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy, delicious dessert combining layers of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and strawberry-flavored cake mix baked to golden perfection. Topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion requiring a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Cake and Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling and Garnish
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this aside for layering.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Next, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling and gently swirl them together using a spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix over the creamy and fruit layers, covering the surface completely.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible to ensure an even, moist bake.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother layer.
- You can substitute strawberry pie filling with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of sugar cooked down slightly if preferred.
- For easier slicing and serving, allow the cake to cool completely or chill briefly before cutting.
- This dessert can be made in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use cold butter instead of melted for a different texture, but melted butter helps the cake mix layer properly.
