If you are searching for a dessert that is not only delicious but incredibly simple to make, you have to try this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. This dessert combines the luscious flavors of creamy cheesecake with juicy strawberries and the comforting texture of a moist yellow cake. It’s one of those magical desserts where you “dump” the ingredients together in layers and end up with a show-stopping treat that feels special but saves you so much time. Whether you’re planning a weekend gathering or simply want a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for effortless, crowd-pleasing desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that bring a perfect balance of flavors and textures to this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. Each one plays a unique role to create a dessert that is creamy, fruity, buttery, and wonderfully moist.
- Yellow cake mix: Provides the soft, fluffy cake layer that bakes up golden and tender on top.
- Strawberry pie filling: Brings that vibrant strawberry flavor and juicy sweetness that soaks beautifully into the cake.
- Butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cake mix crisp up to a golden finish.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces), softened: Creates the creamy, smooth cheesecake layer in the middle with a slight tang.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the tartness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the aroma and flavor, making everything taste warm and inviting.
- Milk: Helps dissolve the cream cheese and sugar into a velvety filling.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This prep ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly. Setting the right baking temperature and properly greasing the pan is a small step that makes a big difference in your final dessert.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Filling
Next, spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This layer infuses the cake from the base with bright strawberry flavor and plenty of juicy sweetness. It’s what makes this recipe stand out compared to an ordinary dump cake.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. This luscious, cheesecake-style mixture is gently poured over the strawberry layer. Taking the extra minute to blend thoroughly guarantees a silky texture in every bite.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Layer
Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling. This step creates that dreamy cheesecake center, adding richness and a hint of tangy contrast that balances perfectly with the sweet strawberries and cake mix.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix on top of the creamy layer. Don’t worry about mixing; the magic of the dump cake is in the layers baking together. This dry cake mix topping will absorb moisture from below and bake into a golden, crumbly crust that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This crucial step adds flavor and moisture that helps the top layer crisp up beautifully, giving you that perfect contrast between gooey and crunchy textures.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and you can see bubbling from the delicious fruit layer underneath. The inviting aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is undeniable and will have everyone counting down the minutes.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the layers set slightly so you can serve neat slices without everything running together. Plus, it’s a great moment to let anticipation build before digging into your Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe from delightful to dazzling, consider a few simple garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely snowy finish, while a few fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of mint on each slice adds freshness and eye appeal. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a winning addition that complements the creamy, fruity layers beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich and flavorful on its own but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides like lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing contrast. If you’re serving at a party, fresh fruit salad or a crisp meringue cookie on the side can add variety and keep your guests reaching for seconds without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends with presentation? Try serving the dump cake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve approach. Layer each portion with additional fresh strawberries on top or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for visual impact. Another fun idea is to make mini dump cakes in muffin tins for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to keep the cheesecake layer fresh and prevent the strawberries from fermenting. Properly stored leftovers will stay delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dump cake freezes well, making it easy to enjoy later. Cut the cake into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven or microwave for a freshly baked taste anytime you crave something sweet and comforting.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place wrapped in foil in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Warming revives the gooey texture and aroma, making it taste almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute fresh strawberries tossed with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken. However, keep in mind the texture and juiciness may vary slightly, and baking times might need a small adjustment.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensuring that the pie filling is gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe to suit gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I use cream cheese from the refrigerator directly?
It’s best to soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for the smoothest, creamiest consistency. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps and a less even layer.
What can I substitute for butter?
You could substitute melted coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a slightly different flavor and to accommodate dietary restrictions, but butter provides the best traditional taste and golden crust.
How long does this cake keep at room temperature?
Because of the cream cheese, it’s safest to keep this dessert refrigerated. Leaving it out for more than two hours can risk spoilage, so plan to serve it chilled or warm from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is pure magic for dessert lovers who want incredible flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a baking superstar without needing any special skills or long prep time. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again for celebrations, weeknight treats, or whenever you want to bring a little joy to the table. I promise, it will become one of your favorite easy desserts!
Print
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful and simple dessert that combines creamy cheesecake layers with sweet strawberry pie filling and a crunchy cake topping. Perfect for quick baking with minimal effort, it yields a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can strawberry pie filling
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
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Strawberry Filling: Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful base.
- Mix Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a rich cheesecake layer.
- Layer Cheesecake Mixture: Pour and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling layer in the baking dish.
- Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely for a crisp topping.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to moisten the topping and help it bake to a golden brown.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set and make slicing easier.
Notes
- You can substitute the strawberry pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for variety.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
