Meet your new dessert shortcut: Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! With just a handful of ingredients and barely any prep, this ridiculously simple treat blends luscious strawberries, tangy cheesecake, and buttery cake into one mouthwatering masterpiece. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, birthdays, or those spontaneous sweet cravings that pop up out of nowhere. If you’re hunting for a recipe that feels like a little bit of magic with almost zero effort, you’re in for a real treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t you love when a dessert relies on easy-to-find ingredients, yet delivers big on flavor and comfort? Each component of this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake brings its own charm, whether it’s the jammy berries or that creamy swirl. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Strawberry Pie Filling: This brings juicy, sweet-tart strawberry flavor and a gorgeous, ruby-red color—no chopping or cooking required.
- Cream Cheese (softened): The creamy, tangy layer transforms every bite into true cheesecake bliss.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the cream cheese without overpowering the strawberries.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The secret shortcut that bakes up into the perfect soft, golden crust on top.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): This gets drizzled on for rich flavor and that irresistible, lightly crisp topping.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon adds bakery-style depth and warmth.
- Fresh Strawberries or Whipped Cream (optional): These are for next-level presentation—add them if you want to impress!
How to Make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Heat your oven to 175°C (350°F), then lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A quick spray or swipe of butter does the trick—it keeps every delicious layer from sticking when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Strawberry Pie Filling Base
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of your prepared dish. This will cook down into a shamelessly juicy layer that sets the stage for all the good stuff to come.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s creamy and fluffy. This combo brings that classic cheesecake flavor and a dreamy creamy texture.
Step 4: Swirl and Layer
Drop spoonfuls of the sweetened cream cheese over your strawberry layer, then gently swirl it with a knife. You don’t need it perfect! Those marbled streaks look gorgeous baked.
Step 5: Cake Mix Magic
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over everything, making sure to reach the corners for that golden, buttery crust in every bite. No mixing needed—just a good, even sprinkle.
Step 6: Butter on Top
Drizzle the melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix. The more you cover, the crispier and more flavorful that topping will be. It’s the secret to the cake’s crunchy crown.
Step 7: Bake and Enjoy
Bake in your preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top turns golden and you see those strawberry juices bubbling up around the edges. Let it cool slightly so it sets a bit—but don’t wait too long! This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is pure heaven warm or at room temp.
How to Serve Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Garnishes
For that bakery-fresh finish, top slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a tumble of fresh strawberries. You can also sprinkle on a few sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair. Simple extras make each serving feel restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
This dessert is plenty fabulous on its own, but if you want to complete the spread, pair it with hot coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a glass of cold milk. Even a scoop of lemon sorbet makes a fun, zesty partner for the cake’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut neat squares and pile into cupcake liners for grab-and-go treats at picnics, or layer cake and berries in glasses for cute little parfaits. You can also make “cake jars” by spooning layers into mason jars—perfect for gifting or packing in picnic baskets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight—if you even have leftovers!
Freezing
Want to save it for later? Cool the cake completely, slice it, and wrap pieces individually. Tuck them in a freezer bag or airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked taste, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or warm larger portions in an oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10–15 minutes. Just until warmed through—this keeps the texture dreamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit filling instead of strawberry?
Absolutely! Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake loves some variety. Try cherry, blueberry, raspberry, or even apple pie filling for a fun twist. Just swap one can for another and bake as usual.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese first?
Yes, softened cream cheese is key for a creamy, easily spreadable mixture. Take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking or gently microwave for a few seconds to bring it to room temperature quickly.
Will this recipe work with gluten-free cake mix?
It sure will! Grab your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix and follow the same simple steps. The results are just as scrumptious, so no one misses out on dessert.
Can I make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in advance?
Definitely. Bake it a day ahead and refrigerate once cooled. Serve cold, room temperature, or gently reheat right before serving—whatever you fancy!
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because you literally “dump” the ingredients—layer by layer—right into the baking dish. No mixers, no fussy steps, just a few minutes of layering and swirling, then into the oven it goes. It’s as easy as a dessert can be!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a fuss-free, shareable dessert that’s as impressive as it is easy, this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your go-to. The breezy preparation, knockout flavor, and crowd-pleasing looks make it destined for repeat appearances at your table. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the very first bite!
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Easy 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
Indulge in the delightful combination of strawberries, cream cheese, and cake with this easy and scrumptious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling:
- 1 can (540g / 19 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 1 package (250g / 8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cake Topping:
- 1 box (432g / 15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- Optional: fresh strawberries or whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layering: Spread strawberry pie filling in the dish. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth; dollop over the filling and swirl. Sprinkle cake mix, then drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden. Cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh strawberries or whipped cream.
Notes
- You can substitute strawberry filling with cherry or blueberry for a twist.
- Serve warm or chilled. Add sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
