When it comes to desserts, sometimes simplicity is the key to greatness. Enter the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake—a sweet, indulgent treat that combines the best of both worlds: creamy cheesecake and fruity, flavorful cake. This recipe is a breeze to make, with minimal prep and a deliciously rich result. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings, this cake is sure to please everyone who takes a bite.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a baking expert to make it. With just a few ingredients—yellow cake mix, strawberry pie filling, and cream cheese—you can create a dessert that tastes like it’s been slaved over in the kitchen for hours. The result is a warm, gooey cake with a golden brown top and a creamy, cheesecake-like layer underneath. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate dessert.
Let’s dive into how you can make this easy yet irresistible strawberry cheesecake dump cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal once it’s baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will create the rich, cheesecake-like layer that makes this dump cake so decadent.
Assembling and Baking Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Now that your cream cheese mixture is ready and the oven is preheated, it’s time to assemble the layers that will make this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake so irresistible. The beauty of a “dump cake” is in how effortlessly it comes together—no need for complicated layering or mixing. Let’s dive into the next steps to create this dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Step 3: Spread the Strawberry Pie Filling
Start by spreading the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. The strawberry filling will form the fruity base of the cake, providing that sweet, tangy flavor that pairs so perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Next, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. You don’t need to spread it out—just drop spoonfuls evenly over the filling. This will create a luscious, creamy layer as it bakes, giving the dump cake its cheesecake-like texture.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Don’t stir it! The beauty of a dump cake is that you simply layer the ingredients on top of each other without mixing. The cake mix will bake up into a golden, slightly crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy filling beneath.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; the top should become golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: FAQ and Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve learned how to make this easy, delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you might have some questions or want to know more about variations and storage. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions and wrap things up with a few final thoughts on why this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Yes! While strawberry is the classic choice, you can easily switch things up with other fruit fillings. Blueberry, peach, apple, or even mixed berries would work wonderfully in this recipe. The fruit filling adds the sweetness and moisture that pairs so well with the creamy cheesecake layer, so feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dump cake ahead of time. You can assemble everything, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven as directed. You can also make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before serving.
Can I use a sugar-free cake mix or pie filling?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar version, you can swap the regular cake mix and pie filling for sugar-free alternatives. Keep in mind that this may affect the overall sweetness of the cake, so you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to your taste.
Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! After it has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm through. The texture may slightly change, but it will still be delicious!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, use a dairy-free butter, and opt for a dairy-free sour cream for topping. Just make sure to check the ingredients on the cake mix and fruit filling to ensure they are also dairy-free.
Conclusion:
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With just a few ingredients, you can create a decadent dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The creamy, cheesecake-like filling paired with the sweet strawberry topping and golden cake makes for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a cozy dessert on a weeknight, this dump cake is both easy to make and absolutely delicious. So, the next time you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and quick, reach for this recipe—you won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy every sweet, creamy bite of your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!When it comes to desserts, sometimes simplicity is the key to greatness. Enter the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake—a sweet, indulgent treat that combines the best of both worlds: creamy cheesecake and fruity, flavorful cake. This recipe is a breeze to make, with minimal prep and a deliciously rich result. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings, this cake is sure to please everyone who takes a bite.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a baking expert to make it. With just a few ingredients—yellow cake mix, strawberry pie filling, and cream cheese—you can create a dessert that tastes like it’s been slaved over in the kitchen for hours. The result is a warm, gooey cake with a golden brown top and a creamy, cheesecake-like layer underneath. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate dessert.
Let’s dive into how you can make this easy yet irresistible strawberry cheesecake dump cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal once it’s baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will create the rich, cheesecake-like layer that makes this dump cake so decadent.
Assembling and Baking Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Now that your cream cheese mixture is ready and the oven is preheated, it’s time to assemble the layers that will make this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake so irresistible. The beauty of a “dump cake” is in how effortlessly it comes together—no need for complicated layering or mixing. Let’s dive into the next steps to create this dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Step 3: Spread the Strawberry Pie Filling
Start by spreading the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. The strawberry filling will form the fruity base of the cake, providing that sweet, tangy flavor that pairs so perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Next, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. You don’t need to spread it out—just drop spoonfuls evenly over the filling. This will create a luscious, creamy layer as it bakes, giving the dump cake its cheesecake-like texture.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Don’t stir it! The beauty of a dump cake is that you simply layer the ingredients on top of each other without mixing. The cake mix will bake up into a golden, slightly crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy filling beneath.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; the top should become golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: FAQ and Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve learned how to make this easy, delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you might have some questions or want to know more about variations and storage. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions and wrap things up with a few final thoughts on why this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Yes! While strawberry is the classic choice, you can easily switch things up with other fruit fillings. Blueberry, peach, apple, or even mixed berries would work wonderfully in this recipe. The fruit filling adds the sweetness and moisture that pairs so well with the creamy cheesecake layer, so feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dump cake ahead of time. You can assemble everything, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven as directed. You can also make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before serving.
Can I use a sugar-free cake mix or pie filling?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar version, you can swap the regular cake mix and pie filling for sugar-free alternatives. Keep in mind that this may affect the overall sweetness of the cake, so you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to your taste.
Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! After it has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm through. The texture may slightly change, but it will still be delicious!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, use a dairy-free butter, and opt for a dairy-free sour cream for topping. Just make sure to check the ingredients on the cake mix and fruit filling to ensure they are also dairy-free.
Conclusion:
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With just a few ingredients, you can create a decadent dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The creamy, cheesecake-like filling paired with the sweet strawberry topping and golden cake makes for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a cozy dessert on a weeknight, this dump cake is both easy to make and absolutely delicious. So, the next time you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and quick, reach for this recipe—you won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy every sweet, creamy bite of your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!
Description
This easy “throw-and-go” dessert layers sweet, juicy strawberries and creamy cheesecake filling under a buttery cake topping that bakes into golden, crackly perfection. With minimal prep and maximum wow factor, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, weeknight treats, or anytime you need a no-fuss dessert.
Fruit Layer
4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Cheesecake Layer
Dump Cake Topping
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)
1️⃣ Preheat & prep dish:
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Lightly grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
2️⃣ Make the fruit base:
In a bowl, toss strawberries with ½ cup sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon zest. Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish.
3️⃣ Whip the cheesecake layer:
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and ¼ cup sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla; beat until well combined. Dollop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the strawberries, distributing as evenly as possible.
4️⃣ “Dump” the cake mix:
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cheesecake layer—do not press down; it should form a loose layer.
5️⃣ Add butter & nuts:
Drizzle melted butter all over the top so it soaks through the cake mix. Sprinkle nuts over the surface, if using.
6️⃣ Bake:
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and juices are bubbling around the edges.
7️⃣ Cool slightly & serve:
Let rest 15–20 minutes so the layers set. Serve warm or at room temperature—optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
Berry Swap: Mix in raspberries or blueberries for a mixed-berry version.
Sugar Adjustment: If your fruit is very sweet, reduce fruit sugar to ⅓ cup.
Make-Ahead: Assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 8 hours. Bake straight from the fridge (add 5–10 min to bake time).
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure cornstarch is GF.
Nut-Free: Omit nuts or substitute toasted coconut flakes.
Storage: Cover and store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Rewarm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 325 °F for 10 min to refresh the topping.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 50 min