There are some desserts that just whisper “comfort” and “joy” from the moment you hear their name. For me, that’s often been something warm, fruity, and undeniably indulgent. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that perfectly encapsulates that feeling: the utterly delightful easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake. This ridiculously simple yet incredibly delicious dessert has become a staple in my home for those times when I crave something spectacular without the fuss.
I’ll never forget the first time I whipped up a dump cake. It was a chaotic Tuesday evening, the kind where dinner felt like a marathon, and the thought of a complicated dessert was simply out of the question. My kids were begging for something sweet, and I stumbled upon a basic dump cake concept, wondering if it could really be as simple as “dump and bake.” The result was shockingly good, a revelation in effortless baking that immediately made me think, “What if I added cheesecake?”
That simple question led to this glorious creation, a dessert that marries the creamy tang of cheesecake with the sweet burst of strawberry pie filling. It’s the kind of treat that looks impressive but takes minimal effort, leaving you more time to actually enjoy it with loved ones. It quickly became a favorite for potlucks, weeknight treats, and even a quick celebratory dessert, much like our family’s beloved Black Forest cake roll.
This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace dessert without the stress. It’s about creating moments of sweet satisfaction, one easy, golden-brown slice at a time. Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to dessert!
Why you’ll love this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- **Effortlessly Simple:** Seriously, “dump cake” isn’t just a name, it’s a promise! This recipe requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy days or when unexpected guests arrive.
- **Irresistibly Delicious:** The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s truly addictive. You’ll adore every bite of this easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake.
- **Warm, Gooey Comfort:** Served warm, this dessert is the ultimate comfort food, with bubbly fruit and melted cream cheese creating a luxurious, gooey texture. It’s pure dessert bliss.
- **Versatile and Adaptable:** While strawberry is fantastic, this recipe is a blank canvas for other fruit fillings. It’s easy to customize to your favorite flavors.
- **Feeds a Crowd:** A 9×13-inch dish yields generous servings, making it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or just ensuring you have delicious leftovers.
- **Pantry Staple Friendly:** Many of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it easy to whip up on a whim without a special grocery run.
Ingredients
- 1 (21 ounce) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries for serving
Directions
Step 1
Easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake makes every moment feel indulgent. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.
Step 2
Pour the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out gently to cover the base completely. This forms your vibrant, fruity foundation.
Step 3
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. An electric mixer works best here to achieve that perfect consistency.
Step 4
Dollop spoonfuls of the creamy cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling layer in the baking dish. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly; the heat of the oven will work its magic, melting and distributing it beautifully as it bakes.
Step 5
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the strawberry and cream cheese layers. Make sure to cover as much of the wet ingredients as possible; this dry mix will transform into your delicious cake topping.
Step 6
Slowly and evenly pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Try your best to saturate as much of the cake mix as you can with the butter. This step is crucial for creating that delicious, golden-brown, crumbly topping.
Step 7
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top of your dump cake is gorgeously golden brown and the filling underneath is visibly bubbly. To check for doneness, a toothpick inserted into the cake topping should come out mostly clean, though a little moisture from the fruit is perfectly expected.
Step 8
Remove the strawberry cheesecake dump cake from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This crucial cooling time helps the rich filling set up, making it much easier to scoop and enjoy. Patience truly is a virtue here!
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
The beauty of a dump cake lies in its adaptability. While strawberry is a timeless classic, don’t hesitate to explore other fruit pie fillings. Cherry, blueberry, peach, or even apple pie filling would create equally delightful results.
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture before dolloping it over the fruit. They melt into delicious pockets of sweetness, enhancing the creamy cheesecake layer beautifully. You could also sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the cake mix before adding the butter for a warm, spiced aroma.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix of pie fillings! A combination of strawberry and rhubarb pie filling offers a lovely tart-sweet balance. Or, for a tropical twist, use pineapple pie filling and a hint of shredded coconut sprinkled over the top.
Pairings
This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired thoughtfully. A scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream is a classic choice, its cold creaminess providing a wonderful contrast to the warm, gooey dessert. The ice cream slowly melts, creating a luscious sauce.
For a lighter touch, a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream is always a winner. You can even infuse the whipped cream with a touch of vanilla extract or a tiny bit of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. It adds an airy, elegant finish to each serving.
Consider serving smaller portions alongside a hot cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. The warmth of the drink complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly, making it an ideal after-dinner treat. For a delightful breakfast or brunch option, pair it with a refreshing glass of milk or a simple fruit smoothie.
Serving ideas
Presentation doesn’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. Serve individual portions of your warm dump cake in small dessert bowls, allowing plenty of room for your chosen toppings. A sprinkle of fresh, sliced strawberries or a few raspberries on top adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
For a more elegant touch, a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate its appearance. The golden-brown crumbly topping is already quite attractive, but these small additions make it feel extra special. Don’t forget the optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a complete experience.
Thinking about a party? You could prepare individual portions in small ramekins or mason jars before baking for a charming, single-serve dessert. For more delightful individual desserts, check out these mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes on Cook Reel – they’re another fantastic option for portion control and elegant serving. This makes serving a breeze and adds a personalized touch for your guests.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake stores beautifully, making it perfect for enjoying over several days. Once completely cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer individual portions into airtight containers.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, often making it taste even better the next day. Reheat gently in the microwave for that comforting, fresh-baked feel, or enjoy it chilled for a different texture.
Freezing this dump cake is also an option, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, cool the entire cake completely, then wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-ahead
While dump cakes are inherently quick, you can do a little prep work to make serving even faster. You can have your ingredients measured and ready to go. Soften your cream cheese ahead of time, and measure out your sugar and vanilla so they are waiting.
The beauty of this easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake is that it’s designed for minimal fuss right before baking. However, you could prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before dolloping for easier spreading.
For the freshest taste and best texture, it’s generally recommended to assemble and bake the dump cake on the day you plan to serve it. The warm, gooey perfection straight from the oven is truly unbeatable. The total time from start to finish is only 60 minutes, making it a very achievable last-minute dessert.
Common mistakes when making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- **Not softening cream cheese:** If your cream cheese isn’t soft, it will be lumpy and won’t blend smoothly with the sugar and vanilla, leading to an inconsistent cheesecake layer. Always allow it to come to room temperature.
- **Skipping the greasing step:** Forgetting to lightly grease your baking dish can lead to the delicious, gooey filling sticking to the bottom, making it difficult to serve cleanly. A quick spray or wipe with butter makes all the difference.
- **Unevenly spreading the cake mix:** If the dry cake mix isn’t spread relatively evenly, some areas might become overly dense or dry, while others remain undercooked. Aim for a consistent layer over the wet ingredients.
- **Not saturating cake mix with butter:** This is the most critical step for the topping! If sections of the dry cake mix don’t get enough melted butter, they won’t bake into that characteristic crumbly, golden crust, instead becoming powdery. Pour slowly and ensure good coverage for your easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake.
- **Serving too soon:** While tempting, slicing into the dump cake immediately after baking will result in a very runny filling. Allowing it to cool for at least 15-20 minutes helps the cheesecake and fruit filling set, giving you cleaner, more satisfying slices.
Final notes
This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly magical. It’s a dessert that speaks of warmth, comfort, and the joy of a homemade treat, all without demanding hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and guarantees a delicious outcome. The vibrant strawberry, the creamy cheesecake, and the buttery cake topping create a symphony of flavors and textures that will undoubtedly impress everyone lucky enough to taste it.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to be amazed by the delightful results. This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake is poised to become a beloved favorite in your home, bringing smiles and sweet satisfaction with every single bite. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor the delicious rewards!
Loved this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? Try these next
- Black Forest cake roll
- Easy Oreo dump cake recipe
- Low carb pizza casserole
- Mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes
- Spicy jalapeno dream dip
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Discover the ultimate indulgence with this easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake, a ridiculously simple yet incredibly delicious dessert! Combining the creamy tang of cheesecake with sweet strawberry pie filling and a buttery cake topping, it’s the hassle-free treat you’ve been dreaming of.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (21 ounce) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the base.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer for best results.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling layer in the baking dish. Don't worry about spreading it perfectly; it will melt and distribute beautifully as it bakes.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the strawberry and cream cheese layers, ensuring it covers as much of the wet ingredients as possible.
- Slowly and evenly pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Try to saturate as much of the cake mix as you can; this is crucial for creating that delicious, crumbly topping.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is gorgeously golden brown and the filling underneath is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the cake topping should come out mostly clean (a little moisture from the fruit is expected).
- Remove the dump cake from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the filling set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture before dolloping. This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake is absolutely divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel. Feel free to experiment with other pie fillings like cherry or blueberry for delightful variations!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of cake
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg