This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a warm, gooey dessert with sweet strawberry filling, creamy cheesecake layers, and a buttery golden cake topping. It is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or an easy family dessert that comes together with minimal effort.
Made with strawberry pie filling, fresh strawberries, cream cheese, vanilla cake mix, and butter, this dump cake delivers rich flavor and comforting texture. The “dump” method means you simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven do the work.
It is especially delicious served warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or extra fresh strawberries for a beautiful, indulgent finish.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is. You only need a few ingredients and about 10 minutes of prep time.
The flavor is bright and comforting. Strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries create a sweet, juicy base, while the cream cheese layer adds tangy richness.
It is also very forgiving. As long as you layer the ingredients and let the butter melt over the cake mix, the dessert turns out golden and delicious almost every time.
What Is a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a no-mix dessert made by layering ingredients in a baking dish and baking. The name comes from the idea of “dumping” the ingredients into the pan.
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake uses strawberry pie filling, fresh strawberries, cream cheese, vanilla cake mix, and melted butter. As it bakes, the butter melts into the cake mix and creates a crisp, golden topping.
The strawberry and cheesecake layers underneath become warm, bubbly, and creamy. The result is a cross between a strawberry cobbler and a cheesecake.
Ingredients You Need
This recipe uses only a few simple ingredients to create a warm, comforting dessert.
Strawberry Layer
- 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cake Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Topping
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
The strawberry pie filling provides sweet, juicy flavor. The cream cheese layer adds tangy richness, while the cake mix and butter create the buttery, golden topping.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This recipe is extremely easy to prepare. The key is to layer the ingredients and let the oven do the work.
Prep the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Strawberry Layer
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
Gently scatter the sliced fresh strawberries over the pie filling.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry layer.
Gently spread the dollops slightly, but do not mix them into the strawberries.
Add the Cake Topping
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Do not stir.
Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible.
Bake
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.
Let the cake rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Serve
Spoon the warm strawberry cheesecake dump cake into bowls.
Top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or extra fresh strawberries if desired.
Texture and Flavor
This dump cake has a soft, juicy strawberry layer underneath, creamy cheesecake swirls, and a buttery, golden, slightly crisp topping. The cake mix does not turn into a traditional cake. Instead, it becomes a crumbly, cobbler-like crust.
The strawberries are warm and syrupy, with a bright, natural sweetness. The cream cheese adds tangy richness that balances the sweetness.
Served warm, it feels like a rich, comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Tips for the Best Results
A few small details can help your dump cake turn out perfectly every time.
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Use softened cream cheese for the smoothest cheesecake layer. Cold cream cheese will not beat smoothly.
Do Not Stir the Layers
Do not stir the dessert after layering, so the filling and topping bake properly. Keep the layers distinct.
Cover Dry Spots
Cover any dry spots of cake mix with a little extra melted butter before baking. This prevents powdery patches.
Let It Rest
Let the cake cool briefly so the creamy filling sets slightly. This makes it easier to serve.
Use Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries add brightness and texture. Canned strawberries can work but may be softer.
Easy Variations
This recipe is easy to customize with different flavors, toppings, and additions.
Add Blueberries
Replace half the strawberries with fresh blueberries for a mixed-berry version.
Add Raspberries
Use fresh raspberries instead of strawberries for a raspberry cheesecake dump cake.
Add Lemon Zest
Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for extra brightness.
Make It Nut-Free
This recipe is naturally nut-free. Just check the cake mix label if you have severe allergies.
Add Cinnamon
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the strawberry layer for a warmer spice note.
Serving Ideas
This dump cake is best served warm. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it feel extra special.
Extra fresh strawberries add color and a juicy contrast. A drizzle of strawberry syrup can enhance the fruitiness.
It is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, backyard barbecues, and simple family desserts. Because it is easy to make in a large pan, it is ideal for feeding a crowd.
Storage Tips
Store leftover dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
The topping will soften as it sits, but the flavor remains delicious. For a crisper texture, reheat it in the oven instead of the microwave.
Nutrition Information
Approximate nutrition per serving, based on 12 servings:
- Calories: 405
- Net Carbs: 59g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Total Carbs: 61g
Nutrition may vary depending on the brand of cake mix, pie filling, cream cheese, and butter you use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple mistakes can affect the texture of a dump cake.
Stirring the Layers
Stirring the strawberry filling, cheesecake layer, and cake mix together can make the topping soggy. Keep the layers separate.
Using Too Little Butter
If the butter does not cover most of the cake mix, some areas may stay dry and powdery.
Underbaking the Cake
Bake until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Underbaking can leave the cake mix tasting raw.
Serving It Too Soon
Let the dump cake rest for 15 minutes. This allows the filling to set so it is easier to scoop and serve.
Using a Small Pan
A pan smaller than 9×13 inches can cause the dessert to overflow in the oven.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the dump cake ahead and bake it when needed. It is also great for reheating leftovers.
Can I freeze dump cake?
Yes. Cool completely, then cover and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm and bubbly.
Can I use regular pie filling?
Yes. Strawberry pie filling is standard for this recipe. Sugar-free versions can work for a lower-sugar option.
Why is my topping not browning?
Make sure the butter covers most of the cake mix and that the oven is fully preheated. You can also bake a few minutes longer if needed.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes. Vanilla, yellow, or even white cake mix can work. Vanilla cake mix gives a classic, sweet flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake works because the strawberry filling and fresh strawberries create a sweet, juicy base while the cream cheese layer adds tangy richness. The cake mix and butter form a golden, crumbly topping that balances the soft layers underneath.
It is simple, comforting, and perfect for anyone who wants an easy dessert with minimal effort. For a warm, bubbly, crowd-pleasing treat, this dump cake is a delicious choice.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a warm, gooey dessert made with sweet strawberry pie filling, fresh strawberries, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a buttery golden cake topping. With just 10 minutes of prep and no complicated mixing, it is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert for summer gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
Ingredients
Strawberry Layer
- 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cake Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Scatter the sliced fresh strawberries over the pie filling.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry layer. Gently spread the dollops slightly, but do not mix them into the strawberries.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cheesecake layer. Do not stir.
- Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the dump cake rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or additional fresh strawberries, if desired.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese so the cheesecake mixture blends smoothly.
- Do not stir the layers after assembling the dessert.
- Make sure the melted butter covers as much of the dry cake mix as possible to prevent dry or powdery spots.
- Let the dump cake rest for about 15 minutes after baking so the filling can set slightly.
- Fresh strawberries provide extra brightness and texture, but canned strawberries can be substituted.
- For a mixed-berry version, replace half of the strawberries with fresh blueberries.
- For a raspberry variation, substitute fresh raspberries for the strawberries.
- Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a brighter flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For the crispest topping when reheating, warm portions in a 350°F oven rather than the microwave.
- To freeze, cool completely, cover well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
- Nutrition information is approximate and will vary depending on the brands of cake mix, pie filling, cream cheese, and butter used.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 405 per serving
- Fat: 18g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 59g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Protein: 4g per serving
Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake