Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as simple to pull together as it is luscious to eat, look no further than the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. With layers of juicy strawberry, tangy cream cheese, buttery golden cake, and a crown of sweetness, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned baker, you’ll fall in love with how easy it is to create showstopping results—and your guests will never guess it only took minutes to assemble!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe lets a handful of familiar ingredients shine and work together to deliver richness, flavor, and irresistible color. Every component has its own voice in the final dessert, creating a harmonious celebration of strawberry cheesecake goodness.

• Strawberry pie filling (1, 21 oz can): Delivers that classic, tangy-sweet berry layer, complete with juicy fruit pieces and vibrant color.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates creamy, tangy pockets that mimic your favorite cheesecake bites.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese so it pops against the berries and cake.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors with warmth and aromatic notes.
• Yellow cake mix (1 box): The backbone of the “dump cake” concept, this is what gives our dessert its fluffy, decadent top layer.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Helps create a crispy, moist topping and rich flavor throughout.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Softens the cake mix topping so it comes out golden and slightly gooey.
• Fresh strawberries & powdered sugar (optional): For a fresh finishing touch and extra sweetness when serving.

How to Make Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures easy serving later—no sticking, just beautiful slices of cake that lift right out!

Step 2: Create the Strawberry Base

Open the can of strawberry pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This fruity layer sets the stage with brilliant color and tanginess, ready for the cheesecake magic on top.

Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat (either by hand or with a mixer) until the mixture is completely smooth. This creates that creamy, sweet-tart goodness that’s essential to any “Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe.”

Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Layer

Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Don’t fuss about making this perfect—the little pockets of cheesecake are what make every bite surprise you!

Step 5: Sprinkle on the Cake Mix

Next, grab that box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle the dry mix directly over the cream cheese and fruit layers. Resist the temptation to stir—true dump cake style keeps the layers distinct for maximum flavor and texture contrast.

Step 6: Pour on the Butter and Milk

Drizzle the melted butter evenly atop the cake mix, letting it seep into the cracks. Then, pour the milk over everything to help the cake topping bake up golden and just a little gooey in spots. These liquids work together to create crispy edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is gorgeously golden and bubbling at the edges. Allow it to cool for several minutes before serving so the layers set just enough to hold their shape—but don’t wait too long, because the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is famously irresistible while still warm!

How to Serve Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a scatter of fresh strawberries make for a stunning finish. The cool freshness of the berries contrasts perfectly with the warm cake, and the sugar dusting gives a whimsical, bakery-style flourish that makes every helping feel special.

Side Dishes

This dessert is full of bold flavors and textures, so pair it with something light and refreshing. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is always classic, but you can also serve it alongside a fruit salad or a cold glass of milk for an after-dinner treat that’s as comforting as it is decadent.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or potlucks, portion the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe into individual mason jars or little dessert cups before baking. You’ll have gorgeous, portable treats that show off every luscious layer! Or, bake it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic table centerpiece that’s as photogenic as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers (if you’re lucky)? Cover the baking dish tightly or transfer the cake to an airtight container once it’s completely cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days; the flavors deepen and the texture gets even more luxurious with time.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe at a later date, you absolutely can freeze it! Slice into portions, wrap individually in parchment, and seal in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

For warm, bakery-fresh flavor, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. Or pop the whole covered baking dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. The cream cheese layer will become creamy again, and the buttery topping will regain just a bit of that irresistible crispness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade strawberry filling instead of canned?

Yes! Homemade strawberry pie filling works beautifully here. Just be sure it’s thick and sweet—too runny, and the base will be a bit soupy. The flavor will be even brighter and more “real” if you use fresh berries.

What’s the best way to soften the cream cheese quickly?

If you forgot to set out your cream cheese, just cube it and microwave in a bowl for about 10 seconds. Or let it sit in its foil wrapper in warm water for a few minutes—it needs to be soft for the ultimate creamy swirl.

Can I swap in other cake mix flavors?

Absolutely! White cake mix and even vanilla or butter cake mixes will all work for a slightly different flavor profile. Choose your favorite, and don’t be afraid to experiment—a real advantage of the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe.

How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?

The top should be golden and set, with bubbling strawberry edges. If you gently shake the dish, the center should barely jiggle. Ovens vary, so start checking at the 45 minute mark and don’t be afraid to bake a little longer if needed.

Is this recipe gluten free?

It’s not gluten free as written, but you can easily use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead! Double check the labels on your ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version for everyone to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe when you want a showstopping dessert without any fuss. I hope this becomes a favorite in your kitchen, too! Give it a go, savor every spoonful, and don’t forget to share the love—your friends and family will thank you.

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