Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

The beauty of a dump cake lies in its name. There’s no need to fuss over complicated steps or elaborate techniques—just "dump" the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. It’s a dessert that's low on effort but high on payoff, with layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Let’s dive into how to whip up this delectable treat, starting with what you’ll need!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let me tell you why this dessert has a special place in my heart:

• Minimal effort: No need for mixers, fancy tools, or hours of prep.
• Maximum flavor: Tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake come together in perfect harmony.
• Customizable: Swap out the strawberry filling for cherry or blueberry if you're feeling adventurous.
• Perfect for any occasion: This dessert is as at home at a barbecue as it is at a holiday dinner.

Now, on to the star of the show—let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients for Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces) – The base for that tender, crumbly texture.
• 2 (21-ounce) cans of strawberry pie filling – Juicy, sweet, and bursting with fruity flavor.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – Softened for easier dolloping; this adds the "cheesecake" element.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – For a touch of sweetness in the cream cheese layer.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the cream cheese flavor with a hint of warmth.
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter – Cold and sliced into thin pats to ensure a golden, buttery crust.
• Optional toppings: Fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for garnish.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your cake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Spread the Strawberry Filling

Pour the cans of strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a luscious, fruity layer.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Dollops

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat or stir until smooth and creamy. Using a spoon, dollop this mixture evenly over the strawberry filling. Don’t worry about spreading it out perfectly—it will melt and swirl as it bakes.

4. Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the strawberry and cream cheese layers. Try to distribute it as evenly as possible, but again, perfection isn’t necessary.

5. Top with Butter

Take the slices of cold butter and place them evenly over the dry cake mix. The butter will melt in the oven, combining with the cake mix to create a golden, crumbly topping.

6. Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The strawberry filling should be bubbling around the edges, and the butter should have coated the cake mix completely.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the dump cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Use cold butter: Slicing the butter thinly ensures it melts evenly, giving you a consistent golden topping.
2. Room-temperature cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is soft enough to mix easily but not runny. This makes for a creamy, rich cheesecake layer.
3. Experiment with flavors: While strawberry is a classic choice, you can substitute it with any pie filling of your choice—cherry, blueberry, or even peach.
4. Add texture: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, over the cake mix before baking for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This dump cake is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a few simple additions:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for that hot-and-cold contrast.
• A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
• Freshly sliced strawberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.

Whether served warm out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Why Dump Cakes Are a Game-Changer

Dump cakes are a lifesaver for anyone short on time but big on flavor. They’re the epitome of “set it and forget it” baking, with no mixing bowls, complicated techniques, or hours of prep required. Plus, they’re incredibly forgiving—there’s no need to stress about precision, which makes them ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking to whip up a dessert in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried a dump cake before, this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect place to start. Its blend of creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors will win over even the toughest dessert critics. Plus, its ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, special occasions, or last-minute gatherings.

So, the next time you’re craving a sweet treat with minimal effort, grab your baking dish, a few simple ingredients, and let the magic of dump cake baking transform your dessert game. Trust me—one bite, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner!