Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – The Ultimate Easy Dessert
Strawberry cheesecake dump cake is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake mix for an easy, mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is a must-try. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a decadent dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and busy families who want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Is Perfect for You
This dump cake recipe is one of the easiest desserts to make, making it ideal for anyone who loves quick and delicious sweets. It requires only a handful of pantry staples, and there’s no complicated mixing or layering involved. Everything gets dumped into a baking dish and baked to perfection. This dessert is also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. If you love strawberry cheesecake but don’t want to deal with making a traditional cheesecake, this is the best alternative.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (30 oz) can strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 stick (½ cup) melted butter
- 1 egg
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
While this strawberry cheesecake dump cake is amazing as is, you can add a few extra ingredients to elevate the flavor and texture. Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping. A sprinkle of cinnamon can add a warm depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. You can also mix in white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness. If you want a more intense cheesecake flavor, add an extra 4 ounces of cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer by mixing the softened cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Spoon dollops of this mixture over the strawberry pie filling, gently swirling it in with a spoon.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the strawberry and cheesecake layers, making sure to cover everything completely.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring all areas are moistened.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, or let it cool completely for a firmer texture.
Tips for Success: How to Get the Perfect Dump Cake Every Time
- Use high-quality strawberry pie filling for the best flavor. Some store brands can be overly sweet or artificial-tasting.
- Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Do not mix the cake mix into the filling. Dump cakes work best when the dry cake mix sits on top and absorbs moisture as it bakes.
- For a richer taste, use a butter-flavored cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
- If you like a crispy topping, bake the cake a little longer or broil it for the last few minutes to create a caramelized crust.
- Want a less sweet version? Use unsweetened strawberries and make homemade strawberry pie filling with less sugar.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This dessert is delicious on its own, but adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to another level. You can also drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for extra indulgence. If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider topping each slice with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze strawberry cheesecake dump cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds, or warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Is a Must-Try Recipe
This recipe is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. It’s easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress guests. The rich strawberry and cheesecake layers contrast beautifully with the crispy, buttery cake topping, creating a dessert that feels luxurious without the effort. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or weekend treat, this dump cake will always be a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dump Cake
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling.
What other cake mix flavors work well with this recipe?
White cake mix, butter pecan, or French vanilla all work great.
Can I make this dump cake in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for about 3 hours, or until the top is golden and the edges are set.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix.
Final Thoughts: Should You Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Absolutely! This easy dessert is perfect for those who want something sweet but don’t have time to bake from scratch. The combination of strawberries, cheesecake, and buttery cake mix makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress your family and friends.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence: How to Make a Healthier Version
If you love this recipe but want a lighter version, there are a few simple swaps you can make. Use a sugar-free cake mix, replace the butter with unsweetened applesauce, and opt for low-fat cream cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a protein boost. While this dessert is meant to be indulgent, these small changes can help reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
Now that you have everything you need to make the perfect strawberry cheesecake dump cake, it’s time to get baking. Try this recipe today, and let me know how it turns out!