Strawberry cheesecake dump cake is the perfect solution for anyone craving a decadent dessert without the hassle of complicated steps. With its layers of sweet strawberries, tangy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping, this dessert comes together quickly and delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!
In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and creative variations to make this dessert your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: True to its “dump cake” name, this dessert requires minimal effort. Simply layer the ingredients and bake.
- Decadent Flavor Combination: The sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and rich cake topping create a mouthwatering blend.
- Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or family dinners, it serves up to 12 and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
- Customizable: With simple tweaks, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients Breakdown
Key Ingredients:
- Strawberry Pie Filling (1 can, 21 oz)
This provides the fruity base for the dessert. Opt for a high-quality brand for the best flavor. - Yellow Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 oz)
The dry cake mix creates a buttery, crumbly topping without the need for additional ingredients. - Cream Cheese (1 package, 8 oz)
Adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. - Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted)
Ensures the cake topping bakes up golden and crispy. - Sugar (1/2 cup) and Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp)
Enhance the cream cheese layer with sweetness and a touch of warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Spread the Pie Filling
Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will serve as the sweet and juicy base of the dessert.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Pro Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
Step 4: Layer the Cream Cheese
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Spread it gently to create an even layer, but don’t worry if it’s not perfect—imperfections add to the charm of a dump cake!
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Resist the temptation to stir—this layer will form a crisp topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Make sure most of the surface is covered, as the butter helps create a golden, crumbly crust.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for Success
- Even Butter Coverage
Use a spoon or brush to spread the melted butter evenly over the cake mix if needed. Uneven coverage can leave dry spots in the topping. - Customize Your Filling
Not a fan of strawberries? Swap the pie filling for cherries, blueberries, or peaches to create new flavor combinations. - Make Ahead
Prepare the dump cake a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat individual servings in the microwave before serving. - Add a Crunchy Topping
For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the cake mix before baking.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake
Replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a rich, chocolatey twist. - Citrus Flair
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture to brighten up the flavors. - Cheesecake Swirl
Swirl the cream cheese mixture into the strawberry filling before adding the cake mix for a marbled effect. - Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert.
- Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Cover leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook the strawberries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a thick, jam-like consistency.
2. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe or omit it entirely.
3. Do I need to mix the cake mix with eggs and oil?
No, the cake mix is used dry in this recipe, and the melted butter provides the moisture needed for baking.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry cheesecake dump cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its luscious layers and no-fuss preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake guarantees success and smiles all around.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of this heavenly treat!
