Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a blissful mashup of classic cheesecake and fruity cobbler, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is about to become your new obsession! Imagine layers of creamy, tangy cheesecake, luscious strawberry pie filling, and a golden vanilla cake topping, all achieved with the simplest pantry staples and absolutely no fuss. Every spoonful brings together the coolness of cream cheese, jammy strawberries, and buttery crumbles for a dessert that feels nostalgic yet surprising. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or feeding a crowd at a potluck, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake promises comfort and joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is how each ingredient serves an important role. Nothing fancy, but every item contributes to that signature flavor and texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

• Vanilla Cake Mix: The secret shortcut for a tender, buttery topping that crisps up in the oven.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates that tangy, cheesecake-layer magic.
• Sour Cream: Adds a subtle zing and extra creaminess to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and balances out the tartness of the cream cheese and strawberries.
• Strawberry Pie Filling: Provides vibrant fruit flavor with syrupy richness—no need to fuss with fresh berries.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter seeps into the cake mix, giving those golden crispy edges everyone loves.
• Milk: Helps moisten the cake topping for the perfect texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances every single layer with warmth and depth.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Before getting started, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it preheats, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this step ensures the cake lifts out easily and keeps cleanup minimal. Prepping your pan makes all the difference when you want perfect slices of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!

Step 2: Make Cream Cheese Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until it’s super smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed. This luscious layer is the heart of the recipe, adding a silky texture and a tangy twist that perfectly balances the sweet berries and cake.

Step 3: Layer in Pan

Now, spread the cream cheese mixture in an even layer over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Be gentle with your spatula to create a uniform base—this ensures every piece of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is rich and creamy.

Step 4: Add Strawberry Filling

Spoon strawberry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Aim for even coverage, so each bite captures the bright burst of juicy strawberries. The fruity layer not only brings color but makes each forkful taste like summer.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cake Mix

Next, grab your box of vanilla cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the strawberry layer. Don’t stir—just let it rest there. This classic “dump cake” move creates that iconic crumbly golden topping as it bakes.

Step 6: Add Butter, Milk, and Vanilla

Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible. Then lightly drizzle the milk and vanilla extract on top—the combination will help achieve a soft, almost cobbler-like finish in certain pockets, while other bites get satisfyingly crisp edges.

Step 7: Bake

Slide your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, bubbling at the edges, and your kitchen smells like heaven. If you spot a few soft spots, don’t worry—they’ll firm up as the cake cools.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake cool for a few minutes. It’s fantastic served warm when gooey and creamy, or chilled from the fridge for a denser, cheesecake-like experience. You can’t go wrong either way!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Garnishes

For that extra bit of flair, top your cake with clouds of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh sliced strawberries. Chopped toasted pecans or almonds add a delightful crunch if you’re feeling fancy. The right garnish takes this humble dessert over the top!

Side Dishes

This cake loves the spotlight, but it pairs beautifully with a mug of hot coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a refreshing fruit salad. The creamy tang and berry flavors make it especially nice with something cold or lightly tart on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping warm Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake into sundae bowls and topping with vanilla ice cream for a cobbler-style treat. For a party, serve small squares in cupcake liners on a dessert tray, or layer leftovers with whipped cream in clear glasses for cute parfaits. Kids love the “mash-up” look, and adults will swoon at every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake stores beautifully! Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld and intensify—sometimes the second-day slices are even better.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, this dessert is freezer-friendly. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual portions tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm slice, microwave leftovers on a microwave-safe plate for about 30–45 seconds. Alternatively, heat in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warm. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different pie filling instead of strawberry?

Absolutely! While strawberry creates the signature flavor of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, other fruit pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or raspberry are excellent too. Just swap the filling for a fun new twist while keeping the other ingredients and method the same.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, with a few easy substitutions: use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, plant-based butter, and a non-dairy milk. Make sure your cake mix is dairy-free as well. The result is still creamy, flavorful, and just as show-stopping!

Do I need to soften the cream cheese first?

It’s highly recommended! Softened cream cheese blends effortlessly into the sugar and sour cream, ensuring the cheesecake layer is smooth with no lumps. For best results, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.

What if I don’t have vanilla cake mix?

You can use yellow cake mix or white cake mix in a pinch! The flavor will shift slightly, but the overall texture and sweetness will still make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake irresistible. Avoid mixes with pudding included for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans, or one deeper roasting pan. Baking time might need to increase by about 5–10 minutes, so keep an eye on the top to ensure it’s fully baked and golden.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that delivers big on flavor but low on effort, you can’t go wrong with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. It’s the kind of dessert people remember and request again and again, so go ahead—give it a try, and let it sweeten up your next gathering!

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