Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines the ease of a dump cake with the decadent flavors of a strawberry cheesecake. It’s the perfect dessert when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Here’s why this recipe is about to become your new favorite:

  • Incredibly Easy: Just layer, dump, and bake! No mixer required.
  • Time-Saver: Prep takes less than 10 minutes before it goes into the oven.
  • Show-Stopper Dessert: Despite its simplicity, it looks and tastes like you spent hours making it.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to holiday celebrations.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
  • Customizable: Easy to adapt with different fruit fillings depending on the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 box yellow or white cake mix
  • 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too stiff, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to make it spreadable.
  3. Layer the ingredients:
    • Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    • Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer, then gently swirl it through (don’t completely mix them together).
    • Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese and strawberry layers.
    • Drizzle the melted butter all over the cake mix, trying to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
  4. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
  5. Cool completely before serving (at least 30 minutes). The dump cake will set up as it cools.
  6. Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Helpful Tips:

  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
  • Butter Coverage: Try to drizzle the butter as evenly as possible over the cake mix to prevent dry patches.
  • Check While Baking: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil.
  • Cooling Time: Don’t skip the cooling time! This cake needs to set up properly.
  • Double the Fruit: For an extra fruity dessert, use two cans of pie filling.
  • Serving Suggestion: While delicious at room temperature, this dump cake is heavenly when served warm with cold ice cream!

Details:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 servings
  • Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

Notes:

  • Cake Mix Options: While yellow or white cake mix works best, you can experiment with other flavors like French vanilla or even strawberry for an extra berry boost.
  • Fresh Strawberries: If strawberries are in season, you can substitute the canned pie filling with 4 cups of fresh strawberries tossed with ⅓ cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
  • Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free cake mix.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other fruit fillings in this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with cherry, blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling as well.

Why is it called a “dump cake”?

The name comes from the method of preparation—you simply “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish in layers without mixing.

Can I make this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in advance?

Yes! Prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.

What if I notice dry spots of cake mix on top after baking?

If you notice any dry spots after baking, drizzle a little more melted butter on those areas and return to the oven for 5 minutes.

Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Storage Instructions:

  • Room Temperature: The cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 24 hours if your home isn’t too warm.
  • Refrigerator: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Individual portions can be gently warmed in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

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Conclusion:

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake truly offers the best of both worlds—the fruity, creamy decadence of a cheesecake with the convenience and simplicity of a dump cake. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth on a weeknight, this dessert is guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

The layers of tart strawberry filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping create an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, you’ll spend more time enjoying this delicious dessert than you will making it! Give this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake a try the next time you need an impressive dessert with minimal effort.

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