If you are looking for a dessert that is as effortlessly delicious as it is show-stopping, the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful treat combines the sweet tang of strawberry pie filling with creamy cheesecake goodness, all topped off with a golden cake crust that practically melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate and comes together with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component brings its own special texture and flavor, creating layers that are rich, fruity, creamy, and satisfyingly cakey all at once.
- Yellow cake mix: Serves as the crumbly, buttery crust that gives the dump cake its iconic texture.
- Strawberry pie filling: Adds bright, sweet, and slightly tart fruitiness, bursting with berry flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): Brings a luscious, smooth richness to the cheesecake layer.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture perfectly without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic essence.
- Butter (melted): Ensures the cake topping becomes wonderfully golden and crispy.
- Milk: Helps create a creamy, pourable cheesecake consistency.
- Cinnamon (optional): A pinch on top adds a subtle warm spice that complements the strawberries beautifully.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures that your dessert won’t stick, making it a breeze to serve up perfect slices later on.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spoon the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This juicy layer will provide the bright, fruity base for every bite.
Step 3: Mix and Spread the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious cheesecake layer gently over the strawberry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix and Butter
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly on top of the cheesecake layer. Then drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. For an extra touch of flavor, lightly sprinkle cinnamon over the top if you like.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn a gorgeous golden brown and for the entire cake to be cooked through, which means it’s time to pull it out.
Step 6: Let Cool and Serve
Allow the dump cake to cool slightly so the layers can set, but feel free to serve it warm—especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The warm colors and comforting flavors of this dessert make it a natural canvas for beautiful garnishes. Fresh sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts can add lovely texture and a pop of color. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This dump cake pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee, tea, or even a chilled glass of milk. For a brunch or dessert party, you might serve it alongside fresh fruit salad or light, fluffy whipped cream to keep the meal balanced yet celebratory.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try scooping the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe into elegant ramekins for individual servings. Layering small parfait glasses with whipped cream and fresh berries alongside the cake can turn this humble dessert into a stunning showpiece that gets everyone talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your dump cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for dessert prep in advance.
Freezing
You can freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe, though the texture might change slightly. Wrap the cooled cake securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers or thawed cake, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat the whole dish at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes until warm throughout. Add a scoop of ice cream for a treat that tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be substituted, but you might want to add a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling. This will help the fruit hold together and release its natural sweetness during baking.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
The traditional recipe isn’t gluten-free because of the yellow cake mix, but you can swap in a gluten-free cake mix to make it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and a vegan cake mix. The strawberry pie filling is generally vegan, but it’s worth double-checking labels to be sure.
Why is it called a dump cake?
The term “dump cake” comes from the super easy method of simply dumping all the ingredients into the baking dish without complicated mixing steps. It’s a perfect choice for bakers looking for a quick and tasty dessert.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Definitely! While strawberry is classic and lovely, cherry, blueberry, or even apple pie filling would work beautifully with this cheesecake dump cake base, giving you plenty of room for creative twists.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make, and that’s a combination we all crave. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite to share at gatherings or to treat yourself on any day of the week. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients and dive into this wonderfully sweet, creamy, and comforting dessert adventure!
Print
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberry pie filling with creamy cheesecake and a buttery cake topping. Perfect for when you want a delicious homemade treat with minimal effort, it bakes to a golden brown finish and is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake won’t stick.
- Add Strawberry Pie Filling: Evenly spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling over the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the juicy fruity base layer.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this evenly over the strawberry filling layer in the baking dish.
- Add Cake Mix Topping: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cheesecake layer. Then drizzle the melted butter all over the top to moisten the cake mix, and sprinkle with cinnamon if using, to add a warm spice note.
- Bake the Cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious warm on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and whole milk.
- The cinnamon topping is optional but adds a nice depth to the flavor profile.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth cheesecake layer.
- This cake can be made in advance and reheated gently before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
