Looking for an easy-to-make dessert that’s as delightful as it is simple? This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry filling topped with a buttery cake mix, all in one pan. With minimal prep time and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this is the ultimate go-to dessert for busy days or family gatherings. Whether served warm or cooled, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a family favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Flavorful and Comforting

The combination of creamy cream cheese, sweet strawberry pie filling, and a crispy cake topping creates a truly comforting dessert. The sweet strawberries provide a tangy punch that’s balanced by the rich cream cheese layer and the soft, golden cake topping. Each bite is packed with flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Perfect for Gatherings

This dump cake is not only quick and easy, but it also makes a generous amount, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, and family get-togethers. The best part? You don’t need to worry about fancy frosting or decoration—just mix and bake for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Quick and Simple

If you’re short on time but still want a homemade dessert, this recipe is your solution. With just a few simple steps and a total cooking time of less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to enjoy. No complicated techniques or special ingredients required—just a simple dump-and-bake recipe that always delivers.

Ingredients & Substitutions

2 15-ounce cans of strawberry pie filling: This provides the base of your dessert. You can also use blueberry, cherry, or any other fruit pie filling of your choice.
8 ounces of cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds a rich, cheesecake-like texture. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
1 large egg: The egg helps bind the cream cheese filling together. You can substitute with a flaxseed egg or chia seed egg for a vegan option.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cream cheese layer. You can replace this with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if needed.
1 package vanilla or white cake mix: The cake mix creates a golden, crispy topping. For a homemade touch, you can use your favorite cake mix recipe instead.
1/2 cup salted butter, cold: The butter helps form a rich, crispy topping. If you prefer, use unsalted butter and adjust the sugar to taste.
Fresh strawberries for serving (optional): Garnish with fresh strawberries for a burst of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat while you prepare the ingredients.
Prepare the baking dish: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Layer the cream cheese mixture: Scoop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Spread it out gently with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
Add the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the vanilla or white cake mix over the strawberry and cream cheese layers. Do not mix—it’s meant to form the cake topping.
Top with butter: Slice the cold butter into thin pats and scatter them evenly over the cake mix.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly, then serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

This dump cake is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. For a festive touch, serve it with fresh sliced strawberries on top or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of chilled milk for an extra treat.

How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, simply warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or heat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze the dump cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing, and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips from the Chef

Use cold butter: For a crisp and golden topping, make sure the butter is cold. This helps it create a deliciously crunchy texture on top.
Don’t overmix the cream cheese: Beat the cream cheese, egg, and sugar just until smooth. Overmixing can result in a runny consistency.
Customize the fruit filling: If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to swap the strawberry pie filling with your favorite, like blueberry, cherry, or peach.
Top with fresh fruit: Fresh strawberries or other berries add a fresh touch to the dessert and make it visually appealing.
Make it ahead of time: This dump cake stores well, so you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat when needed.

Variations

Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, egg substitute, and a vegan cake mix for a plant-based dessert.
Gluten-Free: Swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free version to cater to dietary needs.
Berry Medley: Try using a mix of strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry pie fillings for a delicious berry twist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
While fresh strawberries can be used, pie filling provides extra sweetness and thickens the mixture. If using fresh fruit, add sugar and cornstarch to create a thicker consistency.

Can I prepare this dump cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Freeze the cake for up to 3 months, and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines the flavors of sweet strawberries, rich cream cheese, and a buttery cake topping, all in one simple-to-make recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just a weeknight treat, this cake will delight everyone who tries it. So go ahead, make this dessert, and watch it become a family favorite in no time!