The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you love effortless desserts that taste as impressive as they look, The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will sweep you off your feet. This recipe is the dreamy fusion of creamy cheesecake, sweet bursts of strawberries, and the buttery crumb of a classic dump cake—all layered into a ridiculously simple treat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, sharing with friends, or just indulging on your own, The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake brings full-on flavor and a playful spirit to any occasion. Trust me: this is about to become your new go-to dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is just how approachable the ingredient list is. You’ll find a mix of classic, pantry-staple items and fresh touches, each one playing an essential role in building flavor, texture, and that gorgeous layered look.

• Yellow cake mix: This is the magic behind that soft, cakey top layer with its rich golden color and hint of vanilla flavor.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Drizzled over the cake mix, this ensures a moist, crunchy golden top with every bite.
• Strawberry pie filling: Sweet, juicy, and vibrant, it forms the heart of the dessert with every spoonful.
• Cream cheese (softened): The luscious cheesecake layer that’s creamy and decadent—don’t skip the softening step for easy mixing!
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and rounds out the tang of the cream cheese for perfect balance.
• Vanilla extract: A splash brings warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
• Whipped topping (thawed): Adds a cloud-like finish, extra creaminess, and a pretty presentation.
• Fresh strawberries (optional for garnish): For that final pop of color and an extra burst of real fruit flavor.
• Powdered sugar (optional for dusting): A light dusting elevates the look and adds a subtle sweetness.

How to Make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick spray or butter. This ensures easy serving later—and you’ll want every last bit of this cake to slide out effortlessly!

Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Layer

Grab a medium bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If your cream cheese is nicely softened, this step is a breeze—just a few minutes with a hand mixer or some good old-fashioned elbow grease.

Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling

Pour both cans of luscious strawberry pie filling into your prepared baking dish, spreading them into a smooth, even layer. This not only makes for a gloriously fruity base but ensures every scoop gets that tangy strawberry flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Mixture

Carefully spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over the strawberry filling. Gently spread it out with a spatula to mostly cover the strawberries. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—swirls and pockets make every bite surprising and delightful.

Step 5: Sprinkle on Cake Mix

Now, evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the top of the cheesecake layer. No need to stir—this “dump” step is the secret to that signature crumbly, cake-like finish.

Step 6: Pour Over Melted Butter

Drizzle the melted butter as evenly as possible across the dry cake mix, making sure to cover most of the surface. The butter helps the cake mix bake up golden, buttery, and deliciously crisp in spots.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Your kitchen will fill with the most irresistible fruity, buttery aroma—that’s how you know it’s nearly ready!

Step 8: Cool (and Optionally Chill)

Once baked, let the dump cake cool for about 30 minutes. If you like firmer layers, especially for neater slices, chill it in the fridge for an extra hour or two. Otherwise, warm and gooey is heavenly, too.

Step 9: Finish with Whipped Topping and Strawberries

Spread the whipped topping across the cooled cake and, if desired, pile on fresh strawberry halves. A little dusting of powdered sugar is the cherry—or in this case, strawberry—on top. Your The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is now a showstopper!

How to Serve The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Garnishes

For a wow-worthy finish, always top The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with billowy whipped topping and a handful of gleaming fresh strawberries. Sprinkle on a bit of powdered sugar for that bakery-style look. A few mint leaves or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can give things an extra-special touch if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This luscious cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its sweetness. Try offering small bowls of vanilla ice cream or an extra dollop of whipped cream. For more contrast, serve alongside a platter of fresh berries or a chilled glass of milk—even a robust cup of coffee if you’re enjoying this as a midday treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Individual ramekins make adorable personal desserts, or scoop warm portions into small glasses and layer with extra whipped topping for a parfait-style presentation. The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake also looks stunning on a cake stand if you’re serving a crowd—just add a few whole strawberries and a dusting of sugar for a centerpiece effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tightly cover any leftovers and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The layers will set a little more over time, which many fans actually prefer. Just note: the whipped topping is best added fresh when serving, so consider keeping that separate until you’re ready for seconds (or thirds!).

Freezing

You can most definitely freeze The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Wrap cooled, un-topped portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add whipped topping and garnishes just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop your desired portion onto a microwave-safe plate and warm for 20–30 seconds, just until the strawberry and cheesecake layers are soft and gooey again. If you prefer, you can gently reheat in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. Always add fresh toppings after warming for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?

Absolutely! While strawberry pie filling makes this The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake special, feel free to swap in blueberry, cherry, raspberry, or even a combination if you’re feeling adventurous. Each brings its own personality to the cake.

Do I have to use yellow cake mix?

Yellow cake mix gives a classic flavor and golden color, but white, butter, or even strawberry cake mix will work if that’s what you have. Each variation gives a different twist, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?

If you find store-bought pie filling very sweet, try using just one can mixed with two cups of fresh strawberry slices, or look for “no sugar added” varieties. You can also cut the granulated sugar in the cheesecake layer to 1/3 cup for a slightly tangier bite.

Can I make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in advance?

Definitely! The cake sets up beautifully with a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just wait to add the whipped topping and fresh berries until right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

How do I get the best cream cheese layer?

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing—it’ll blend smoother and spread easier. A handheld mixer is your friend here. Don’t stress if some of it swirls into the strawberry layer during assembly; those marbled bites are delicious!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s joyfully simple yet guaranteed to wow, The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your answer. It’s charmingly unfussy, brimming with flavor and nostalgia, and sure to turn any gathering into a celebration. Give it a try soon—your friends and family will adore every dreamy bite!

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