A quick and delicious dessert, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines layers of fruity sweetness, creamy cheesecake pockets, and a buttery, golden topping. It’s perfect for gatherings or satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort. Just dump, bake, and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is easy and versatile, combining a few simple pantry ingredients for a crowd-pleasing dessert. The strawberry pie filling brings a bright, fruity base, while the cream cheese adds a creamy richness. The cake mix topping turns golden and crisp, offering the perfect contrast to the soft, sweet layers below.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
Ingredients
2 cans (20 oz each) strawberry pie filling – The base of the dish, providing a sweet and tangy fruit layer.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – Creates creamy cheesecake pockets throughout the cake.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the cream cheese layer.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix – Forms the topping, giving a fluffy yet crumbly texture.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Moistens the dry cake mix, creating a golden crust.
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional) – Adds crunch and a touch of classic cheesecake flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Prep Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Layer the Ingredients
Spread the Strawberry Filling: Evenly distribute the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture over the pie filling, spreading gently to create pockets of cheesecake.
Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top, ensuring full coverage of the filling layers.
Add the Butter & Topping
Drizzle the Butter: Evenly pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible for even browning.
Optional Topping: For added crunch, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the buttered cake mix.
Bake and Serve
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool slightly before serving.
Serve
Serve the cake warm or chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Customize the Filling:
Swap the strawberry pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or mixed berry pie filling for a flavor variation.
Crumbly Topping:
For a crumble-like texture, use a pastry cutter to mix the melted butter into the cake mix before sprinkling it over the filling.
Cheesecake Swirls:
To create a marbled effect, use a knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture into the strawberry filling before adding the cake mix.
Add Texture:
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the top for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairing: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Festive Presentation: Add fresh strawberries on top for a decorative and fresh touch.
Chilled Dessert: Refrigerate the cake and serve it cold for a firmer texture.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving: 320 kcal
Servings: 12
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate quick dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, surprising a loved one, or simply treating yourself, this easy recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, dump them in, and let the oven do the rest!