Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that’s impossibly easy but undeniably irresistible, look no further than Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This delightfully simple treat layers creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberry filling, and a buttery cake topping for a dessert that tastes like you spent all afternoon baking (but really only took a few minutes to assemble). Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck or craving something cozy at home, this fruity, creamy, golden-topped cake is about to become your go-to favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake plays a starring role, working together to deliver amazing flavor and that dreamy dump cake texture. From the tang of cream cheese to the golden vanilla cake topping, here’s what you’ll need—and why you can’t skip a single thing:

• Vanilla cake mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): The foundation for our ooey-gooey topping, it provides sweet, fluffy structure with no measuring or fuss.
• Cream cheese (1 package, 8 ounces, softened): Adds rich, tangy creaminess and that signature cheesecake flavor.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Lends a subtle tang and keeps the cake layer extra moist and decadent.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Perfectly sweetens the cream cheese layer so every bite is balanced.
• Strawberry pie filling (1 can, 21 ounces): Bursts of fruity strawberry flavor in every mouthful, providing juiciness and intense color.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): The secret to a golden, crispy cake top and luxurious flavor that seeps into every crevice.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Keeps the cake mix moist so everything bakes up beautifully soft underneath the crisp topping.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens flavor for that homemade taste you only get from real vanilla.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. This step keeps your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from sticking and ensures every slice scoops out beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and granulated sugar. Grab your electric mixer and beat everything together until you’ve got a smooth, creamy, and totally lump-free mixture. This will be the luscious base of your dessert.

Step 3: Layer in the Pan

Scoop every last bit of that cream cheese mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it in an even, tempting layer along the bottom. This guarantees a creamy bite in every forkful.

Step 4: Add Strawberry Filling

Spoon the strawberry pie filling right over the cream cheese base. Try to spread it evenly so that the strawberry goodness covers every inch, but don’t stress—dump cakes are all about ease and a rustic look.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cake Mix

Take your dry vanilla cake mix and scatter it generously and evenly across the strawberry layer. Don’t stir—just make sure the surface is coated. The dry mix will soak up all the flavors as it bakes.

Step 6: Add Butter, Milk, and Vanilla

Next, pour the melted butter over the cake mix, using a slow and steady hand to moisten as much of the topping as you can. Then drizzle the milk and vanilla extract evenly over the top. This combo is key—it turns the mix into that dreamy, golden crust we all crave in a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.

Step 7: Bake

Pop your cake in the oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling invitingly around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen right now? Pure magic! Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. And take note: this is delicious warm or chilled, so you really can’t go wrong.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Garnishes

This cake is a beauty all by itself, but it shines even brighter with a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh strawberries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. For special occasions, try a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a few mint leaves for color.

Side Dishes

Because Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is so rich and decadent, it pairs best with lighter sides. Think a chilled fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even just a hot cup of coffee or tea to cut through all that indulgent sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, scoop the dump cake into individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming single-serve presentation. Hosting a summertime event? Try serving it slightly chilled with a scoop of strawberry or cheesecake ice cream for an extra frosty treat. You can even cut the cooled cake into squares, top with a strawberry slice, and serve as elegant mini desserts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you (miraculously) end up with leftovers, cover your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days—though it rarely lasts that long!

Freezing

To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then wrap portions in plastic wrap followed by foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re craving a slice, thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have a ready-made treat anytime.

Reheating

For that just-baked taste, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. Or, if you want to reheat the whole pan, cover it with foil and bake at 300°F for about 10–15 minutes. It’ll taste like you just pulled it from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?

Absolutely! While strawberry is classic for a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you can easily swap in cherry, blueberry, or even mixed berry pie filling. It’s a fantastic way to customize the dessert to your taste or whatever you have on hand.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free vanilla cake mix in place of the regular one. Double-check that your other ingredients (like pie filling and cream cheese) are also gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

Do I have to use sour cream?

Sour cream really adds that tangy richness, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt. The texture and taste will still work beautifully in your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.

Is it better served warm or cold?

Honestly? Both ways are amazing! Warm, it’s gooey and cozy. Chilled, it holds together beautifully and is especially refreshing in warmer months. Try both and see which you prefer!

Can I add fresh strawberries?

Definitely! Try scattering some sliced fresh strawberries between the cream cheese and pie filling layers for bursts of fruity brightness—or add them as a garnish for both flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your friends and family with minimal effort, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your answer. It’s fun, fuss-free, bursting with strawberry flavor, and sure to spark smiles all around. Trust me: once you whip this up, it’ll become your dessert ace-in-the-hole for every occasion!

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