Introduction

This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert hack, combining creamy cheesecake filling with juicy strawberries and a golden cake topping. With just a 5-minute prep, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. If you love strawberry desserts, try our Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe or Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe for more delicious variations.

Ingredients

This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake recipe combines the sweet-tart burst of strawberry pie filling with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer and a buttery golden topping for a dessert that’s pure comfort.

• 2 (15.75-ounce) cans of strawberry pie filling
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 box cake mix (white, yellow, vanilla, or strawberry)
• 1/2 cup butter, cold

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake comes together in about 20% less time than a traditional layered cheesecake recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from sticking and ensures easy serving.

Step 2 — Layer the Fruit Filling

Spread two cans (about 21 ounces each) of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. For a more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a dash of vanilla extract to the filling.

Step 3 — Add the Cream Cheese Layer

Cut one 8-ounce block of cold cream cheese into small cubes. Scatter the cubes evenly over the strawberry layer. Using cold cream cheese helps it hold its shape and melt slowly into the cake as it bakes.

Step 4 — Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle one 15.25-ounce box of yellow cake mix (dry, straight from the box) over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Do not stir. For a richer flavor, you can use a butter recipe cake mix.

Step 5 — Top with Butter

Slice one cup (two sticks) of cold unsalted butter into very thin pats. Arrange the butter pats in a single layer, covering as much of the dry cake mix as possible. This is key for creating the signature crisp, golden topping.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake on the center rack for 45-55 minutes. The cake is done when the top is deeply golden brown and the edges are bubbling vigorously.

Step 7 — Cool and Set

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. This allows the creamy cheesecake layer to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~5 g
Carbohydrates	~58 g
Fat	~19 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sodium	~380 mg

Note: These are approximate values per serving for this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, calculated using common ingredients and brands. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific products and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

This easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein-Packed Cake Mix — Use a vanilla or yellow protein cake mix to boost the protein content, adding a subtle, rich flavor that complements the cheesecake layer.
• Lower-Carb Sweetener — Swap the cake mix for a keto-friendly baking mix and use a sugar-free strawberry pie filling to create a delicious low-carb version.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese — Opt for a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make this dessert dairy-free; it provides the same tangy, creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend — Replace the standard cake mix with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a celiac-friendly Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
• Reduced-Sodium Butter — Choose a unsalted or low-sodium butter to control the overall salt content, letting the sweet strawberry and cheesecake flavors shine.
• Greek Yogurt Blend — Mix half cream cheese with half plain Greek yogurt for a lighter filling with a protein boost and pleasant tang.
• Homemade Sugar-Free Filling — Make your own filling with fresh or frozen strawberries and a natural sweetener like monk fruit for a less processed option.
• Nut-Based Topping — Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top before baking for added healthy fats and a satisfying crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it and make it the star of any occasion.

• À La Mode: Serve a warm scoop of vanilla bean or classic vanilla ice cream alongside a piece of cake. The contrast between the hot, gooey cake and cold, creamy ice cream is a classic pairing that never fails.
• Fresh Berry Garnish: Brighten up each plate with a handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries. It adds a pop of color, freshness, and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness.
• Whipped Cream Cloud: Top each serving with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream or a light spray of canned whipped topping. For extra flair, sprinkle a little lemon zest or graham cracker crumbs on top.
• Drizzle & Dazzle: Elevate the presentation with a simple drizzle. Warm strawberry sauce, salted caramel, or even a chocolate ganache adds a beautiful finish and an extra layer of flavor.
• Perfect for Potlucks: This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a crowd-pleaser. Bake it in a disposable foil pan for easy transport and serving. It’s ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, and family reunions.
• Cozy Dessert Night: Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dessert. Pair it with coffee or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Elegant Plating: For a more refined look, use a round cookie cutter to create a neat portion. Place it in the center of a plate, add the garnishes artfully, and dust with powdered sugar for a restaurant-worthy dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge. Fix: Let it soften completely at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free layer.
• Mistake: Not distributing the cake mix evenly. Fix: Sprinkle the dry mix in a thin, uniform layer to prevent dry, floury patches.
• Mistake: Overmixing the cream cheese and sugar layer. Fix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking.
• Mistake: Using a pan that’s too small. Fix: Stick to a 9×13-inch dish to allow proper heat circulation and prevent overflow.
• Mistake: Skipping the pat of butter on top of the cake mix. Fix: Dot with thin slices of cold butter to ensure a golden, crisp topping.
• Mistake: Underbaking because the center looks set. Fix: Bake until the edges are deeply golden and the center is firm to a light touch.
• Mistake: Using watery pie filling or fresh strawberries. Fix: Opt for thick, quality strawberry pie filling for the right texture and flavor.
• Mistake: Cutting into the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake while hot. Fix: Let it cool for at least an hour so the layers can set for clean slices.
• Mistake: Forgetting to scrape the bowl when mixing cream cheese. Fix: Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl halfway through mixing.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake or individual portions securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheat: For a warm, gooey treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. For a larger portion, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Always use clean utensils to serve your dessert to prevent contamination and maximize its shelf life. For food safety, do not leave this easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert, combining creamy cheesecake flavor with juicy strawberries and a golden cake topping. If you love simple strawberry treats, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake Recipe or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries for this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Simply slice them and toss with a little sugar to draw out their juices before layering. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will still bake up beautifully with that fresh fruit flavor.

Do I need to use a mixer for the cream cheese layer?

No, a mixer is not required. You can easily soften the cream cheese and mix it with the sugar by hand until smooth. This simple step creates the signature “cheesecake” layer in the dump cake.

How do I know when the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. A toothpick inserted into the cakey part should come out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture.