Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Easy & Delicious Dessert

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry flavors, all in an easy-to-make dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick treat, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. With layers of juicy strawberries, a rich cheesecake mixture, and buttery cake topping, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent without the hassle. This dump cake is an effortless way to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Perfect for beginner bakers, this recipe uses common ingredients and straightforward steps. It can be adapted to suit different tastes, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, celebrations, or just an evening indulgence. Plus, cleanup is minimal, allowing you to focus on enjoying the dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With minimal steps, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Rich and Creamy: The cheesecake layer adds a luxurious texture to the dessert.
• Customizable: Swap strawberries for your favorite fruit or pie filling.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.
• Minimal Cleanup: Just one pan to bake and enjoy, making it convenient and mess-free.
• Versatile: Easily adapts to gluten-free, low-sugar, or dairy-free variations.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Core Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
• 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream
• Fresh mint leaves
• Chocolate shavings
• Sliced almonds

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to guarantee consistent and thorough baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Layer the Strawberries

Spread the fresh or frozen strawberries evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Pour the strawberry pie filling over the strawberries to create a fruity base.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth. Blend until smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberry layer, allowing it to melt into the cake as it bakes.

Step 5: Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the entire mixture. Avoid stirring or mixing; let the dry mix remain on top.

Step 6: Pour the Butter

Pour the melted butter uniformly over the cake mix to create an even crust. Again, do not stir; this step creates the golden, crumbly topping during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Cook in the oven for 45-50 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and the edges become bubbly..

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream for an extra layer of sweetness, if desired.

PIN FOR LATER!

Serving Suggestions

1. With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
2. Brunch Treat: Add this dessert to your brunch spread for a sweet highlight.
3. Fresh Fruits: Garnish with fresh strawberries or a mix of berries for a vibrant finish.
4. Layered Parfait: Spoon layers of the dump cake into glasses with whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
5. Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.
6. Seasonal Variations: Use fresh fruits from the season, like peaches in summer or cranberries during winter holidays.

Tips for Success

1. Use Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending and a smooth texture.
2. Do Not Stir Layers: Resist the urge to mix the layers; this gives the cake its distinct textures.
3. Spread Butter Evenly: Drizzle butter as evenly as possible to create a uniform golden crust.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring ingredients like cream cheese to room temperature for easier handling.
5. Test for Doneness: The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
6. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality pie filling and fresh strawberries for the best flavor.

Variations

1. Different Fruits: Replace strawberries with blueberries, cherries, or peaches for a new flavor profile.
2. Chocolate Lovers: Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix and add mini chocolate chips to the layers.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for dietary restrictions.
4. Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top before baking for added crunch.
5. Lemon Cheesecake: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a tangy, citrusy twist.
6. Tropical Delight: Use pineapple chunks and coconut flakes for a tropical version of the dump cake.
7. Reduced Sugar: Opt for unsweetened strawberries and sugar-free cake mix to create a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Chill and Store: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of three days.
• Freeze: Place portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Oven: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 20-30 seconds.
• Serve Cold: Enjoy chilled for a refreshing dessert on warm days.

Nutritional Information

Breakdown of Key Nutrients

• Calories: 410 per serving
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Sodium: 330 mg
• Fiber: 2 g

Adjustments for Dietary Needs

• Lower Sugar: Use a reduced-sugar pie filling and sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
• Lighter Option: Replace butter with a lower-fat alternative or use half the amount.
• Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cream cheese and dairy-free butter substitute.
• Keto-Friendly: Swap the pie filling with a sugar-free version and use almond flour for the topping.

Meal Prep Ideas

• Prepare the cheesecake mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling.
• Freeze individual portions for quick desserts on busy days.
• Assemble the layers in smaller ramekins for single-serving options.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, both fresh and frozen strawberries work well in this recipe.

Q: Do I need to thaw frozen strawberries first?
A: No, you can use them straight from the freezer. Just ensure they are evenly spread.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and bake the cake, then refrigerate. Reheat slightly before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of pie filling?
A: Yes, cherry, blueberry, or peach pie fillings are great alternatives.

Q: How do I prevent the top from burning?
A: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Q: Can I reduce the butter?
A: You can reduce the butter slightly, but ensure there’s enough to moisten the cake mix for a golden crust.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a dessert that brings the best of cheesecake and fruit cobbler together in one dish. Its simple preparation, rich flavors, and versatile options make it a standout recipe for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm with whipped cream or served chilled the next day, this cake is guaranteed to delight. It’s the perfect choice for gatherings, celebrations, or satisfying your sweet cravings. Try this recipe today and bring a touch of indulgence to your dessert table!

Print