Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

This strawberry cheesecake dump cake has saved my sanity on countless last-minute dinner parties and potlucks. The magical layering technique creates a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen when really it took just minutes to assemble. The contrast between the tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake topping creates something truly special.

My family requests this dessert at least once a month. I first made it when my oven was acting up and I needed something foolproof. Now it has become our go-to celebration dessert because it never disappoints and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• Yellow or white cake mix: The foundation of our dump cake provides structure and that classic bakery flavor. Choose a quality brand for best results.
• Strawberry pie filling: Creates a jammy fruit layer that bubbles up through the cake. Look for a filling with whole strawberry pieces for the best texture.
• Cream cheese: Adds that classic cheesecake tang and creaminess. Bring to room temperature for easiest spreading.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer perfectly. Regular white sugar works best here.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds depth. Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Creates that irresistible golden buttery crust when baked. Using unsalted lets you control the overall sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to get into all the corners as this dessert can stick if not properly greased.

Create the Strawberry Base:

Pour the entire can of strawberry pie filling into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom reaching all edges. This fruity layer will bubble up during baking and infuse the entire dessert.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

In a medium bowl beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until completely smooth. Look for a consistency that is spreadable but not runny. Dollop this mixture over the strawberry layer in spoonfuls then very gently spread it creating an even layer. Avoid mixing it with the strawberry filling beneath.

Sprinkle the Cake Layer:

Evenly distribute the dry cake mix powder over the entire surface making sure to cover all the cream cheese layer. Do not press down or mix. The magic of dump cakes happens when these distinct layers remain separate before baking.

Add the Butter Finish:

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix trying to moisten as much of the powder as possible. The butter will help the cake mix transform into a golden buttery crust during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is deeply golden and the edges are bubbling with fruit filling. You will notice some spots where the strawberry filling has bubbled up through the topping.

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The first time I made this for my mother-in-law she was convinced I had spent hours in the kitchen. The look on her face when I explained how simple it was to make was priceless. Now she requests it for every family gathering and I happily oblige because it takes almost no effort.

Make Ahead Options

This dump cake actually improves after sitting for a few hours which makes it perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dessert up to a day before needed, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. Alternatively, bake it earlier in the day and allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. Just remember the texture is slightly different when served cold versus warm.

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Creative Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Swap the strawberry pie filling for cherry, blueberry, peach, or apple to create entirely new flavor profiles. Try using chocolate cake mix with cherry filling for a black forest-inspired version. For a more decadent dessert, sprinkle a half cup of white chocolate chips between the cream cheese and cake mix layers. During fall months, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake mix before sprinkling it over the cream cheese layer for a warm, spicy note.

Serving Suggestions

While this dump cake is absolutely delicious on its own, it reaches new heights when paired with the right accompaniments. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts slightly into the cake, creating a sauce-like consistency. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like lightness that balances the rich filling. For an extra special presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving and add a few fresh strawberries as garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute the strawberry pie filling with other flavors like cherry, blueberry, or apple for a different twist.

→ Should I soften the cream cheese before mixing?

Absolutely. Softening the cream cheese ensures it blends smoothly with the sugar and vanilla for a creamy layer.

→ Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?

Yes, you can replace the standard cake mix with a gluten-free option. It will work just as well!

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions if desired.

→ Can I add toppings to the cake?

Yes! You can top the cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.