Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Introduction 

There’s something magical about a dessert that requires minimal effort yet delivers a show-stopping result. That’s exactly what this strawberry cheesecake dump cake does. The first time I made it, I wasn’t expecting much after all, it’s called a “dump cake.” But as the warm, gooey layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake mix baked together, my kitchen smelled like a bakery in full swing.

The real surprise came when I took my first bite. The combination of tart strawberries and rich cheesecake filling, topped with a golden cake crust, was pure perfection. It reminded me of a cross between a strawberry cobbler and a cheesecake, but with an irresistibly easy process.

Since then, this dump cake has become my go-to dessert for family gatherings and last-minute sweet cravings. It’s effortless, foolproof, and endlessly customizable. Whether I serve it warm with a scoop of strawberry shortcake ice cream cake or chilled straight from the fridge, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Special?

Not all dump cakes are created equal. Some stick to the traditional method of layering fruit filling, cake mix, and butter, while others like this strawberry cheesecake dump cake add a creative twist that takes the dessert to the next level.

A Creamy Cheesecake Layer

What sets this recipe apart from a typical dump cake is the cheesecake layer. Instead of just relying on the fruit and cake mix, this version incorporates a sweet, tangy cream cheese mixture that bakes into a rich and creamy filling. This creates a texture contrast that elevates the entire dessert soft and smooth in the middle with a crispy, golden crust on top.

No Mixing Required

Unlike most baked goods that require precise mixing, this recipe embraces a hands-off approach. You simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish, making it nearly impossible to get wrong. This foolproof method ensures that the flavors blend naturally while baking, creating a beautifully layered dessert with minimal effort.

Endless Customization

Another reason this strawberry cheesecake dump cake stands out? It’s incredibly adaptable. You can swap the strawberry pie filling for other fruits, change up the cake mix flavor, or even add extras like chopped nuts or white chocolate chips. Whether you prefer a classic version or a fun variation, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your cravings.

If you love cheesecake, you might also enjoy these strawberry cheesecake bars for a no-fuss, sliceable treat!

Key Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Understanding the key ingredients in this recipe is essential to getting the perfect texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich cheesecake layer to the buttery cake topping.

Core Ingredients

• Strawberry pie filling – The foundation of this dessert. It provides a sweet, fruity base that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.
• Cream cheese – The secret ingredient that transforms this from an ordinary dump cake into a luscious strawberry cheesecake dessert.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer, balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors in the cheesecake mixture, adding depth and warmth.
• Eggs – Helps bind the cheesecake layer, ensuring it bakes into a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Yellow or white cake mix – A convenient shortcut that creates the golden, buttery crust on top.
• Unsalted butter – When placed over the cake mix, it melts into the dry ingredients, creating a crisp, buttery topping.

Optional Additions

• Fresh strawberries – Adds a burst of real fruit flavor to complement the pie filling.
• Chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) – Provides a crunchy contrast to the soft filling.
• White chocolate chips – Melts into the cake for an extra indulgent touch.
• Cinnamon or nutmeg – If you enjoy warm spice flavors, you might also like these cinnamon sugar French toast muffins!

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Making strawberry cheesecake dump cake is incredibly simple, but a few key steps ensure that each layer bakes perfectly. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a dessert with a rich cheesecake filling, juicy strawberries, and a golden, buttery crust.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Filling

Evenly spread two cans of strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you want extra fruitiness, fold in a handful of freshly sliced strawberries before spreading.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 eggs until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the strawberry layer, spreading it gently with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle one box of yellow or white cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Be sure not to stir—this layering technique is what gives the cake its distinct textures.

Step 5: Top with Butter

Slice ¾ cup of unsalted butter into thin pieces and distribute them evenly over the dry cake mix. As it bakes, the butter will melt and create a crisp, golden crust.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling at the edges.

Step 7: Let It Set & Serve

For the best texture, let the cake cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm for a gooey, fresh-baked experience or refrigerate for a firmer texture.

For a fun twist, try serving this dump cake alongside banana pudding crunch cheesecake a deliciously creamy dessert duo!

My Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Tips

Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly, a few expert tricks can help you get the best results.

Use Cold Cream Cheese for a Richer Filling

While most recipes call for softened cream cheese, keeping it slightly cool before mixing helps create a thicker, more structured cheesecake layer.

Don’t Stir the Layers

Dump cakes work because the ingredients layer naturally. Stirring disrupts the texture, preventing the cheesecake from baking properly and the cake mix from forming a crisp crust.

Butter Placement Matters

Thinly slicing the butter ensures even coverage, helping all the dry cake mix absorb moisture while baking. If you prefer, you can also melt the butter and drizzle it evenly over the top.

Make It Extra Buttery

If you love a richer, more decadent crust, increase the butter to 1 cup and ensure every part of the cake mix is moistened before baking.

Chill for a Cheesecake-Like Texture

While this dessert is delicious warm, chilling it for a few hours (or overnight) creates a firmer, creamier consistency, similar to traditional cheesecake.

Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

One of the best things about strawberry cheesecake dump cake is how adaptable it is. With a few ingredient swaps, you can create different flavors while keeping the same effortless method. Here are some fun variations to try.

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix to create a rich, chocolate-covered strawberry flavor. The combination of chocolate and strawberries is irresistible, and the cheesecake layer makes it even more indulgent.

Pro Tip: If you love chocolate, don’t miss this brownie lava cake for another indulgent treat!

Berry Medley Cheesecake Dump Cake

If you love mixed berries, try using a combination of strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry pie fillings instead of just strawberry. The mix of tart and sweet berries pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.

Pro Tip: Fresh lemon zest added to the cheesecake mixture enhances the brightness of the berries.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free yellow or vanilla cake mix. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, so you won’t lose any flavor or texture.

Pro Tip: Double-check that your pie filling and cake mix are certified gluten-free to avoid any issues.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dump Cake

For a twist inspired by classic strawberry shortcake, use white cake mix and add a layer of crushed shortbread cookies on top before baking. The cookies create a light, crumbly texture that mimics the taste of traditional shortcake.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

This dessert is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right toppings or sides can take it to the next level. Whether serving it warm or cold, here are the best ways to enjoy it.

Warm and Gooey, Right Out of the Oven

For a cozy, comforting dessert, serve strawberry cheesecake dump cake warm. The strawberry filling will be bubbly, and the cheesecake layer will be creamy and soft.

Best Pairings:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream try pairing it with pumpkin pie ice cream for a seasonal twist!
• A drizzle of caramel or white chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.
• A sprinkle of powdered sugar for a light finishing touch.

Chilled for a Cheesecake-Like Texture

If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the dump cake for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the cheesecake layer to set, giving it a consistency similar to a no-bake cheesecake.

Best Pairings:

• A dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture.
• Fresh sliced strawberries for a bright, fresh flavor.
• A sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs to mimic classic cheesecake.

Party-Style Serving Ideas

If you’re making this for a crowd, consider these fun serving ideas:

• Mason jar desserts: Scoop layers of chilled dump cake into mason jars for individual servings.
• Dessert bar: Set up a toppings bar with ice cream, whipped cream, and sauces so guests can customize their slice.
• Mini cheesecake bites: Cut the chilled dump cake into squares and serve as bite-sized treats.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Even though strawberry cheesecake dump cake is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to fix any issues that arise.

The Cake Mix Is Still Powdery After Baking

This happens when the butter isn’t evenly distributed over the cake mix. Dry patches mean certain areas didn’t absorb enough moisture during baking.

Fix:

• Ensure the butter is sliced thin and covers as much of the cake mix as possible.
• Alternatively, melt the butter and drizzle it evenly before baking.
• If you notice dry spots after baking, add a few spoonfuls of melted butter and return it to the oven for 5-10 more minutes.

The Dump Cake Is Too Soupy

If the texture is overly wet or runny, it may not have baked long enough, or the fruit filling contained too much liquid.

Fix:

• Bake the cake for the full 40-45 minutes or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.
• Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. It thickens as it sits.
• If using fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to absorb excess moisture.

The Cheesecake Layer Is Too Runny

The cheesecake filling should be creamy and set, not liquidy or loose. If it turns out too thin, it could be due to overmixing or not baking long enough.

Fix:

• Use room temperature eggs and beat them in just until combined overmixing can break down the structure.
• Ensure the cake bakes fully so the eggs set the cheesecake layer properly.
• If the cake is too soft after cooling, chill it for a few hours to firm up the cheesecake.

FAQs

Is there a strawberry cheesecake blizzard at Dairy Queen?

Yes! Dairy Queen offers a Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard, which blends vanilla soft serve with strawberry topping and cheesecake pieces. While it’s not the same as a dump cake, it shares similar flavors.

Can you leave a dump cake out overnight?

It’s best to refrigerate strawberry cheesecake dump cake because of the cream cheese layer. Leaving it out for more than 2 hours at room temperature could lead to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Does Blue Bunny make strawberry cheesecake ice cream?

Yes, Blue Bunny offers a Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream, featuring cheesecake pieces and strawberry swirls in a creamy base. It pairs well with this dump cake!

Why is my dump cake still powdery?

If your cake mix remains dry after baking, it likely didn’t absorb enough butter or moisture. Make sure you’re using enough butter and spreading it evenly across the top.

What is another name for a dump cake?

Dump cake is sometimes called a lazy cake or cobbler cake because of its easy, no-mix preparation.

Does Dairy Queen have a strawberry shortcake?

Yes, Dairy Queen occasionally offers a Strawberry Shortcake Blizzard or sundae, featuring vanilla soft serve with strawberry topping and shortcake pieces.

What’s your favorite way to customize strawberry cheesecake dump cake? Share your twists in the comments below!

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