This strawberry cheesecake dump cake is as easy as it is indulgent. In just a few simple steps, you get a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery. Layers of velvety cheesecake, sweet strawberry filling, and a golden, buttery topping come together for a treat that’s as stunning as it is delicious. And the best part? No tricky techniques, no special skills—just layer, bake, and let the oven do the work. Served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream, it turns a simple dessert into a showstopper. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, every bite is pure bliss.
Table of contents
Ingredient lineup
To create the perfect strawberry cheesecake dump cake, gather these essential ingredients along with optional add-ins to enhance flavor and texture.
The essentials
- Strawberry pie filling: the sweet, fruity base that gives the cake its signature flavor.
(Substitute: fresh strawberries mixed with sugar and cornstarch for a homemade alternative.) - Cream cheese: adds rich, creamy cheesecake swirls throughout the cake.
(Substitute: mascarpone for a slightly milder, buttery taste.) - Yellow cake mix: forms the buttery, golden topping with minimal effort.
(Substitute: white cake mix for a lighter flavor or vanilla cake mix for added sweetness.) - Unsalted butter: melts into the cake mix for a perfectly crisp, golden topping.
(Substitute: plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.)
Optional flavor boosters
- Vanilla extract: enhances the cheesecake flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Lemon zest: adds a subtle brightness to complement the strawberries.
- Cinnamon: brings warmth and depth to the cake topping.
Optional toppings
- Fresh strawberries: add a vibrant, juicy contrast to the rich cake.
- Powdered sugar: a light dusting for an elegant finishing touch.
- Whipped cream: adds a creamy, airy element to balance the textures.
- Vanilla ice cream: pairs perfectly with the warm cake for extra indulgence.
Step-by-step directions
Making strawberry cheesecake dump cake is incredibly simple, yet the result is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Follow these easy steps for a foolproof, delicious dessert.
Prep the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so your cake lifts out beautifully—no sticky mess!
Layer the strawberry filling and cream cheese
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and scatter them over the filling. Press them slightly into the strawberries to create creamy pockets that melt into the cake as it bakes.
Add the cake mix and butter
Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top, covering every inch like a buttery crumble waiting to happen. Do not stir—this allows the buttery crumble to form. Thinly slice the butter and distribute the pieces evenly over the cake mix. Ensure every area has some butter to achieve a crisp, golden topping.
Bake until golden
Place the baking dish on the center rack and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges. Noticing any dry cake mix at the 30-minute mark? Just give it a light press with a spoon to help it soak up that buttery goodness.
Cool slightly and serve
Give the cake 10–15 minutes to rest—this lets the filling set so every bite is gooey, creamy, and just right. Scoop up a warm, buttery serving, top it with fresh berries or a cloud of whipped cream, and dig into pure dessert bliss.
Pro oh là là tips
Want to make your strawberry cheesecake dump cake even better? These expert tips will help you boost flavor, perfect your pairings, and make every bite unforgettable.
Customization and variations
- Boost the cheesecake flavor: mix the cream cheese with a bit of vanilla extract and powdered sugar before adding it to the dish.
- Make it citrusy: add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Chocolate lovers’ twist: drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the baked cake for a decadent finish.
- Add texture: sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans on top before baking for a crispy contrast.
- Infuse warmth: stir a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake mix for a subtle spice that complements the strawberries.
- Berry medley: mix in raspberries or blueberries with the strawberry filling for a burst of fresh, tangy contrast.
Servings and pairings
- Pair with a warm drink: serve with a cup of hazelnut coffee or a smooth cold brew espresso for a rich contrast.
- Top with fresh berries: enhance the fruity flavors by adding sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries before serving.
- Add a creamy side: serve with a scoop of vanilla bean or strawberry ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Turn it into a parfait: layer warm dump cake with Greek yogurt or whipped cream in a glass for a stunning parfait-style dessert.
- Go for a tangy contrast: drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the cake for a sophisticated contrast that deepens the strawberry flavor.
- Drizzle with fruit syrup: enhance the strawberry flavor by adding a drizzle of raspberry or cherry syrup before serving.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a dump cake and a cobbler?
A dump cake is made by layering ingredients—typically fruit filling, dry cake mix, and butter—without mixing, creating a crisp, buttery topping as it bakes. A cobbler, on the other hand, has a thicker, biscuit-like or cake-like topping that is spooned or spread over the fruit before baking. Dump cakes are all about ease, while cobblers have a thicker, more traditional topping for that classic homemade touch.
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The most common mistake is unevenly spreading the butter over the cake mix. Dry spots will remain if parts of the cake mix aren’t moistened, leading to an uneven, powdery texture. To prevent this, slice the butter thinly and space it evenly, or melt the butter and drizzle it over the cake mix for full coverage.
Do you have to refrigerate strawberry cheesecake dump cake?
Yes. Since this recipe contains cream cheese, it should be refrigerated after cooling. Keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container or covering the baking dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or enjoy it chilled.
Do you eat dump cake warm or cold?
Dump cake can be enjoyed both warm and gooey or chilled and firm. Serving it warm brings out the gooey texture and enhances the flavors, especially when paired with ice cream or whipped cream. Eating it cold gives it a firmer, cheesecake-like texture that some prefer.
How do you know when dump cake is done?
You’ll know strawberry cheesecake dump cake is done when the top is golden brown, the filling bubbles at the edges, and the butter is fully absorbed. If dry spots remain after 30 minutes, press them down gently and bake longer. The cake should be crisp, with no powdery mix. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to perfect.
This strawberry cheesecake dump cake is proof that the best desserts are both effortless and stunning. With its vibrant layers, rich texture, and fresh berry topping, this dessert delivers indulgence in every spoonful. Whether served in a bowl with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or plated with a side of vanilla ice cream, it’s a treat that deserves to be savored. Want to elevate it even more? Garnish with a sprig of mint to brighten the dish.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your favorite serving ideas in the comments below. Bon appétit!
Recipe card
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Strawberry cheesecake dump cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes – 1 hr 5 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 1x
Ingredients
- 2 (21 oz) cans strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the baking dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2️⃣ Layer the strawberry filling and cream cheese
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the baking dish. Scatter cream cheese cubes over the filling, pressing them slightly into the strawberries.
3️⃣ Add the cake mix and butter
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the strawberry and cream cheese layers—do not stir. Arrange butter slices evenly on top to ensure even baking.
4️⃣ Bake until golden
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling. If dry cake mix remains on top at 30 minutes, lightly press it down with a spoon.
5️⃣ Cool and serve
Let the cake rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
Pro oh là là tip: for an even richer cheesecake flavor, swirl the cream cheese into the strawberry filling before layering the cake mix.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes