Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Strawberry cheesecake dump cake is the type of treat that never fails to brighten a table It brings the tang of fresh strawberries together with creamy cheesecake and the cozy comfort of a classic yellow cake You get everything you love in a dessert with only a handful of simple steps and honestly it is almost impossible to mess up This cake came about on a hectic weeknight when I needed an easy showstopper for a potluck and now friends request it every spring

I remember setting this out for my family the first time and there was not a crumb left The blend of warm cake with creamy cheese and juicy berries is unbeatable especially when served just out of the oven

Ingredients

• Strawberry pie filling: one can The filling gives the cake its signature fruity base and keeps it super moist Look for a filling with whole berries and no artificial dyes
• Yellow cake mix: one box Choose a brand you trust for flavor Avoid mixes with pudding added since it can make the cake overly dense
• Cream cheese: one package Softened cream cheese melts in the oven to deliver that rich creamy swirl Use full fat for the best texture
• Sugar: half a cup White sugar brings out the tang in the cream cheese Make sure it is free of lumps
• Vanilla extract: half a teaspoon Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors Use pure vanilla if possible
• Butter: half a cup melted Quality butter will lend a nutty flavor as it bakes Ensure it is unsalted and fresh
• Fresh strawberries: optional for garnish Look for deeply red berries that smell sweet Slice right before serving for best freshness

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray This prevents sticking and lets the slices serve up cleanly

Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling:

Open your can of strawberry pie filling and spread it in an even layer across the bottom of the dish Distribute the berries so every serving gets plenty

Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a medium bowl beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until you have a smooth creamy mixture Scrape down the sides to catch any lumps

Dollop and Spread the Cream Cheese:

Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer Use the back of your spoon to gently spread it out so it mostly covers the fruit but does not need to be perfect

Top with Cake Mix:

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the entire surface Gently tap the pan to help it settle

Drizzle with Melted Butter:

Pour the melted butter slowly and evenly over all areas of the cake mix Some dry spots are okay since steam helps finish moistening while it bakes

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for forty to forty five minutes The edges should be golden brown and the strawberry layer will bubble up around the sides

Cool and Garnish:

Let the cake cool for at least fifteen minutes before serving This helps the cream cheese set and makes it easier to scoop Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries for extra brightness

Pin it

The cream cheese is absolutely my favorite part My daughter loves to help swirl it over the strawberry layer and we always sneak a tiny taste before baking Last summer we made it at a family reunion and everybody asked for the recipe

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days Cover the dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container For the best texture reheat portions gently in the microwave or in a low oven so the topping stays crisp

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily use cherry blueberry or even peach pie filling instead of strawberry For a zesty twist add some finely grated lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture For a lighter topping try a white cake mix if you prefer subtler flavor

Serving Ideas

Spoon the dump cake into bowls while it is still warm and top with scoops of vanilla ice cream Fresh whipped cream or even a dollop of plain yogurt adds creamy contrast I love making this for a brunch table beside fresh fruit and coffee

A Brief Cake History

Dump cakes found their place in American kitchens thanks to boxed cake mixes in the 1960s This easy style of dessert lets anyone bake something special in a flash The twist of adding a cream cheese layer turns it into a cross between cobbler and cheesecake

Pin it

Serve the dump cake warm for the dreamiest texture and flavor It disappears quickly so be sure to save yourself a spoonful

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other pie fillings?

Yes, substitute with blueberry, cherry, or apple pie filling for a different flavor variation.

→ Do I need to mix the cake mix with eggs or milk?

No, the dry cake mix is sprinkled over the filling; melted butter creates the crust during baking.

→ Can this dessert be made in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare it ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for best texture.

→ How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden and the filling bubbling around the edges. This takes about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is it necessary to garnish with fresh strawberries?

Garnishing is optional, but fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and a vibrant presentation.