Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – The Most Delicious Dessert You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of quick and easy desserts that pack a punch of flavor, you’re going to love this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This delightful dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity sweetness of strawberries and the ease of a dump cake. No complicated steps or mixing bowls needed—just layer, bake, and enjoy!

Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a last-minute treat, this dessert is sure to impress without the stress. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a cheesecake-like texture, every bite is a burst of indulgence.

In this article, we’ll break down the step-by-step process for making the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, share pro tips to ensure success, and offer fun variations to personalize it. Let’s get started!

“This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe is a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and a buttery cake topping.”

What is a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Understanding Dump Cakes

A dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no need to measure, mix, or even stir. You simply dump the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven work its magic. The result is a dessert with a buttery, cake-like topping over a layer of sweet fruit filling.

What makes a dump cake so appealing is its versatility. You can mix and match flavors using different pie fillings and cake mixes. Whether you want something fruity, chocolatey, or rich and creamy, dump cakes can be easily customized to fit your cravings.

Why Add Cheesecake to a Dump Cake?

While a classic dump cake is undeniably delicious, the addition of cheesecake takes it to a whole new level. The creaminess of cheesecake perfectly balances the sweet and tart flavors of strawberry pie filling. This combination creates a texture contrast that makes the dessert both rich and light at the same time.

Imagine a warm, gooey base of strawberry filling, dollops of cheesecake mixture throughout, and a golden-brown, buttery cake topping. That’s the magic of a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake—a blend of fruit crisp, cheesecake, and traditional cake all in one bite.

“A Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake blends the best elements of a traditional dump cake and a classic cheesecake, giving you a truly indulgent dessert.”

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

To make the ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients—most of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need and some tips for substitutions or additions to customize it to your taste.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 can of strawberry pie filling (21 oz) – This provides the base layer of fruity sweetness.
• 1 box of vanilla or white cake mix (15.25 oz) – The dry cake mix creates a buttery crust on top.
• 1 package of cream cheese (8 oz, softened) – For that signature cheesecake flavor and creaminess.
• 1/2 cup of melted butter – Helps the cake mix turn golden and crisp.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake layer.
• 1 cup of fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and color.
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting) – A light sprinkle on top for an elegant finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutes & Additions

• Strawberry Pie Filling Alternatives: Swap for raspberry, cherry, or blueberry pie filling for a different flavor profile.
• Cake Mix Options: Use yellow cake mix for a richer flavor or lemon cake mix for a zesty twist.
• Graham Cracker Crust Effect: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on the bottom of the pan before adding the strawberry filling for a cheesecake-inspired crust.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate-strawberry combo.
• Nutty Twist: Top the cake with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is incredibly simple. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof dessert that will impress every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Strawberry Layer

• Spread 1 can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
• If you prefer a fresher flavor, you can mix 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries with the pie filling. This adds texture and brightens the taste.

Step 3: Prepare and Add the Cheesecake Mixture

• In a bowl, beat 1 package of softened cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
• Using a spoon, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer. There’s no need to spread it evenly; the cheesecake will blend into the filling as it bakes, creating pockets of creamy goodness.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

• Open the box of cake mix and evenly sprinkle the dry mix over the entire dish. Make sure it covers the cream cheese and strawberries completely.

Step 5: Add Butter and Bake

• Drizzle 1/2 cup of melted butter over the cake mix. Try to distribute the butter as evenly as possible to ensure all areas bake properly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
• If some dry spots remain on top, drizzle an additional tablespoon of melted butter and bake for an extra 5 minutes.

Step 6: Let It Cool and Serve

• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes. This helps the cheesecake layer set and makes slicing easier.
• Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or chill it for a few hours if you prefer a more cheesecake-like texture.

Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out perfect every time, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you bake like a pro.

Tip 1: Use High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients directly affects the flavor of your dessert. Here’s what to look for:

• Strawberry Pie Filling: Opt for a high-quality brand with real fruit pieces and minimal artificial flavors.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese creates a richer, creamier texture. Avoid low-fat versions, which can become watery during baking.
• Butter: Real unsalted butter is key for that golden, crisp topping. Margarine or butter substitutes won’t give you the same results.

Tip 2: Distribute Butter Evenly

For the best texture, make sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This step is crucial to prevent dry spots on the top layer. If needed, gently tilt the baking dish to help the butter spread more evenly.

Tip 3: Avoid Overbaking

Bake the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake just until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Overbaking can dry out the cake mix and harden the cheesecake layer.

Tip 4: Let It Cool Before Serving

Although it’s tempting to dive right in, allowing the cake to cool for 15–20 minutes helps the cheesecake layer set. This makes it easier to slice and enhances the texture. If you prefer a more cheesecake-like experience, chill the cake for an hour before serving.

Tip 5: Add a Personal Touch

• For Extra Cheesecake Flavor: Swirl additional cream cheese into the filling before baking.
• Top with Fresh Berries: Add fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream takes this dessert to the next level.

• “When baking a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, the key to a perfect result is evenly distributing the butter and allowing the cheesecake to set properly after baking.”
• “Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm for a comforting treat or chill it for a cool, cheesecake-like experience.”

Variations You’ll Love

One of the best things about a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to tweak the flavors, make it healthier, or turn it into a chocolate lover’s dream, here are some fun variations to try.

1. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

For a rich and decadent twist, add chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer or sprinkle them on top before baking. The combination of strawberries, cheesecake, and chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven.
Pro Tip: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a full-on chocolate experience.

2. Lemon-Strawberry Dump Cake

Brighten up your cake with lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice mixed into the cheesecake layer. The citrusy notes pair perfectly with the sweet strawberries, adding a refreshing twist.
Best Served With: Fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

3. Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap the regular cake mix with a gluten-free vanilla cake mix. The result is just as delicious and ensures everyone can enjoy a slice.

4. Berry Medley Dump Cake

Why stop at strawberries? Add a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a berry explosion. This variation creates a more complex fruit flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Pro Tip: Use mixed berry pie filling or fresh berries with a sprinkle of sugar and cornstarch.

5. Nutty Crunch Topping

For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle the top with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking. The nuts toast in the oven, adding a delicious crunch to every bite.

“For a tropical twist on your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, consider adding shredded coconut to the cake topping before baking.”

How to Serve & Store Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Once your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a firmer cheesecake texture, this dessert is guaranteed to please. Here’s how to serve and store it to keep it fresh and delicious.

How to Serve

• Serve Warm: For a cozy, comforting treat, serve the dump cake warm straight out of the oven. The buttery cake topping will be golden and crispy, and the cheesecake layer will be soft and gooey.
  Best Served With: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Serve Chilled: Prefer a firmer texture? Chill the cake for at least 2–3 hours after baking. This gives it a more traditional cheesecake consistency with a buttery topping.
  Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: This cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.

Mistake 1: Using Too Much Butter

While butter is essential for creating that golden crust, too much can leave the cake greasy and soggy. Stick to 1/2 cup of melted butter, and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix for the best texture.

Mistake 2: Uneven Butter Distribution

Failing to distribute the butter evenly can leave some parts of the cake dry while others are overly moist. To fix this, drizzle the butter slowly and evenly across the surface. For stubborn dry spots, tilt the pan or add a small extra drizzle of melted butter.

Mistake 3: Skipping the Cream Cheese Layer

The cream cheese is what gives this dump cake its cheesecake flavor. Don’t skip it! Make sure to beat the cream cheese until smooth and dollop it evenly over the strawberry layer for the best distribution.

Mistake 4: Overbaking

It’s easy to overbake a dump cake, which can result in a dry topping and a hard cheesecake layer. Check the cake at 45 minutes and remove it from the oven once the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

Mistake 5: Not Letting It Cool

Cooling the cake for at least 15–20 minutes after baking is crucial for the cheesecake layer to set. If you slice it immediately, it may be too runny. For a more cheesecake-like texture, chill it for an hour before serving.

FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.

Conclusion

A Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion—easy to make, rich in flavor, and completely customizable. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the complicated recipes and make this delightful treat instead!

Discover more quick dessert ideas like our Old-Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce or our Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars and Follow us on Facebook

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: PT1H
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

The best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe. This easy dessert combines cheesecake and strawberries for the ultimate treat. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

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Instructions

• Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Add Strawberry Layer: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. For extra freshness, add 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries.
• Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the strawberry layer.
• Top with Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the entire dish. Do not stir.
• Drizzle Butter and Bake: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.
• Chill for 2–3 hours for a firmer cheesecake texture and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries.
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

• Prep Time: PT10M
• Cook Time: PT50M
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of the cake)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 270mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake