Introduction
Few desserts combine convenience, indulgence, and nostalgia as beautifully as a dump cake. The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake takes the effortless charm of a traditional dump cake and elevates it with the creamy richness of cheesecake. With layers of sweet strawberry pie filling, buttery cake mix, and a luscious cream cheese mixture, this dessert is an irresistible fusion of classic strawberry cheesecake and an old-fashioned dump cake.
The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity—there’s no mixing, no complicated techniques, and no need for special equipment. Just dump the ingredients into a baking dish, bake, and enjoy a warm, bubbling dessert with a golden, buttery crust. Whether you need a last-minute dessert for a party, a comforting treat for family night, or an easy recipe for beginners, this cake delivers big flavors with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll explore:
The history of dump cakes
Why this strawberry cheesecake version is a must-try
Step-by-step instructions for perfect results
Delicious variations and customizations
Expert tips for making the best dump cake
Serving suggestions and storage tips
Let’s dive into the sweet and simple magic of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
-The History of Dump Cakes: A Nostalgic Favorite
Origins of the Dump Cake
The dump cake has been a staple in American kitchens since at least the 1960s, when quick, easy recipes became popular with busy home cooks. It belongs to the same category as cobblers and crisps, where minimal effort results in a warm, fruit-filled dessert with a cake-like or biscuit topping.
Unlike traditional cakes, dump cakes require no mixing. Instead, ingredients are layered in a baking dish, with a dry cake mix sprinkled on top and butter drizzled over it. The result is a crispy, golden crust over a bubbling, fruity base.
Why Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
While traditional dump cakes use just fruit filling, cake mix, and butter, adding a creamy cheesecake layer makes this recipe even more decadent. The tangy, velvety cheesecake filling balances the sweetness of the strawberries and the buttery cake mix, making it taste like a strawberry cheesecake meets cobbler hybrid.
-Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This recipe uses only six simple ingredients, making it one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever bake.
Main Ingredients:
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling – Provides a fruity, sweet, and slightly tart base.
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix – Creates a buttery, crumbly topping.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – Adds a rich, creamy texture to balance the sweetness.
1/2 cup sugar – Enhances the cheesecake layer.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps create a crisp, golden crust on top.
Optional Additions:
Fresh strawberries – For added freshness and color.
Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – Adds a crunchy contrast.
Cinnamon or nutmeg – Enhances the warm, cozy flavors.
White chocolate chips – For an extra layer of sweetness.
-Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Filling
Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over the strawberry filling.
3. Use a spatula or butter knife to slightly swirl the cheesecake into the strawberries, but do not fully mix.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cheesecake and strawberry layers. Do not mix it in—this is what creates the signature dump cake texture.
Step 5: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This helps form the crispy, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
-Delicious Variations
Want to customize your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? Try one of these delicious twists.
1. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich, chocolate-covered strawberry vibe.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cake mix before baking.
2. Mixed Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Swap the strawberry pie filling for a mix of blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry fillings.
Add lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a bright, citrusy contrast.
3. Graham Cracker Crust Dump Cake
Add a layer of crushed graham crackers before the strawberry filling for a true cheesecake-inspired twist.
Sprinkle more graham cracker crumbs on top before serving.
4. Tropical Strawberry Dump Cake
Add shredded coconut and pineapple chunks to the strawberry filling.
Use coconut-flavored cake mix for a summery feel.
-Expert Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake mixture.
Don’t stir the cake mix into the fruit—this is what creates the crispy, cobbler-like topping.
For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts over the butter before baking.
Check for doneness at 40 minutes, as oven temperatures may vary.
For a gooey, softer cake, use only 1/4 cup butter and add 1/2 cup milk on top of the cake mix.
-Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your dessert:
Serve with vanilla ice cream for a creamy, cool contrast.
Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a refreshing finish.
Sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cake for a bakery-style look.
-Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The cake can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Reheating Instructions
Microwave: Warm individual portions for 20-30 seconds.
Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Freezing for Later
This dump cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
-Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat, but impressive enough to serve at holiday gatherings and parties. With its buttery, crisp topping, creamy cheesecake swirls, and juicy strawberry filling, this dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re making it for a family dessert night, a potluck, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this dump cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the magic of a perfectly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how you customized it!
