There’s something truly enchanting about a dessert that looks like it belongs in a fancy bakery but comes together with such effortless charm. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake has been my go-to for gatherings and cozy nights alike. Imagine a creamy, luscious layer of cream cheese cradled beneath a blanket of sweet strawberry filling, all resting on a buttery cake base that melts in your mouth.
I discovered this delightful recipe during one of those hectic weeks where takeout seemed like an easier option. As I rummaged through my pantry, searching for inspiration, the ingredients lined up like stars—a box of yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and a can of strawberry pie filling ready to shine. In less than an hour and with minimal effort, I transformed a few simple items into a crowd-pleasing dessert that thrilled my family and friends.
Perfect for the spring and summer months, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake not only brightens any table but also brings a heavenly blend of flavors that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this sweet sensation and impress your guests—or just treat yourself!
Why is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy cream cheese and tangy strawberries creates a mouthwatering dessert that’s bursting with flavor.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is quick to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends as they indulge in this visually stunning and delicious treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or chilled, and feel free to add your unique twist by incorporating different fruits or toppings!
Perfect for Sharing: This generous cake serves a crowd, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, barbecues, or holiday gatherings.
Get ready to fall in love with this foolproof dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
• Yellow cake mix – a convenient starter that gives your dump cake a lovely texture.
• Unsalted butter – adds richness; be sure to melt it for easy mixing.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream cheese – at room temperature, so it blends smoothly for that creamy texture.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens your cream cheese layer perfectly.
• Vanilla extract – just a splash enhances the overall flavor.
• Kosher salt – a pinch balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Lemon zest – brings a fresh zing that complements the strawberries beautifully.
For the Strawberry Topping
• Strawberry pie filling – offers a quick and delicious topping, making this a true strawberry cheesecake dump cake.
• Fresh strawberries (optional) – for garnish, they add a lovely color and freshness to your dessert!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
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Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure your cake bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
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Prepare the Dish: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze!
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Mix the Cake Base: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and melted unsalted butter. Stir until fully blended, then transfer the mixture to your baking dish, pressing it down evenly with your hands or the bottom of a flat measuring cup.
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Cream the Cheese: Beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and kosher salt in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on medium speed. Mix until creamy, about 2 minutes. Spread this luscious layer evenly over the cake base.
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Add Strawberry Filling: Spread the strawberry pie filling over the cream cheese mixture. This colorful layer adds sweetness and complements the cream cheese beautifully.
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Bake: Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and bubbly, while the center remains slightly jiggly. Let it cool for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
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Serve: Slice when ready to enjoy! Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh strawberries just before serving, if desired.
Optional: A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the cake base and cream cheese layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps up to the baking phase, cover the crust with the cream cheese mixture, and refrigerate. The strawberry pie filling can also be spread on top just before baking without compromising the flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the cake as directed, allowing it to cool before chilling for at least 4 hours. This method not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors, resulting in a dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of this creamy, fruity masterpiece.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and complements the richness of the cream cheese.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside it for a creaminess that mingles beautifully with the strawberries.
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Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only brighten the plate but also add a refreshing contrast to the sweet flavors.
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Lemonade: The zesty flavor of lemonade balances the richness of the cake, making for a delightful and refreshing drink pairing.
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Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the sweet and tangy notes of the dessert, enhancing the afternoon treat vibe.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent twist that adds a rich flavor profile.
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Fresh Berries: Mixed fresh berries alongside the cake bring a burst of color and a juicy freshness that pairs perfectly.
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Chilled Rosé: A glass of chilled rosé wine elevates the celebration, with its fruity notes enhancing the strawberry bliss.
Each pairing adds its unique touch, ensuring that your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake shines at your gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and creamy!
Freezer: If you won’t finish it within a few days, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for about 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen strawberry cheesecake dump cake, transfer it to the fridge the night before you want to serve it. Allow it to thaw completely before slicing.
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Enjoy the delightful flavors once more!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always use cream cheese at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly into a creamy layer without lumps.
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Prevent Sticking: Don’t skip the cooking spray! Thoroughly coat your baking dish to avoid any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. The edges should be golden brown, while the center should still be slightly jiggly—the perfect sign that your strawberry cheesecake dump cake is ready!
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Chill for Best Flavor: Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to enhance the flavors. It’s worth the wait!
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Garnish for Appeal: Fresh strawberries make a lovely garnish. They add color and contrast, making your dessert as beautiful as it is delicious!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe, making it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend for a delicious variation that everyone can enjoy. Just make sure to check the baking time as it may vary slightly.
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Berry Medley: Mix in or substitute the strawberry pie filling with blueberries, raspberries, or even cherries for a burst of mixed berry goodness. Each berry brings its own unique flavor and character!
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Chocolate Bliss: Add a layer of chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture or sprinkle them on top of the strawberry filling. The rich chocolate flavor will create a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake base for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor. The crunch contrasts wonderfully with the creamy layers.
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Coconut Infusion: Mix shredded coconut into the cream cheese layer for a tropical twist that complements the strawberries beautifully. This will create a summery vibe perfect for warm days.
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Lemon Zest Lift: Increase the lemon zest to enhance the citrusy freshness. A bit more zing balances the sweetness of the strawberry filling, brightening the overall flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake base for a warm flavor that pairs unexpectedly well with the strawberries. It’s a cozy twist sure to surprise your taste buds!
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Vegan Option: Swap cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a plant-based butter. This keeps the indulgence while catering to a plant-based diet without sacrificing flavor.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are firm, plump, and vibrant in color. Avoid those with dark spots or a dull hue. The best strawberries will have a sweet aroma and fresh green leaves. If you’re using fresh strawberries for garnish, aim for those that are bright red with no blemishes!
How should I store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
To keep your delicious creation fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain good for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before covering it to avoid condensation, which could make the cake soggy.
Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will remain good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge the night before serving to allow it to thaw completely.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to underbaking. Ensure to check it’s done by looking for golden brown edges and a slightly jiggly center. If you find the cake has sunk after baking, you can serve it as a parfait, layering it with extra strawberry filling and whipped cream!
Is this dessert safe for people with egg allergies?
Definitely! This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is made without any eggs, making it a safe option for those with egg allergies. However, always double-check your cake mix to ensure it’s egg-free, as some brands may vary in formulation.
Can I use different fruit fillings instead of strawberry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap out the strawberry pie filling with other fruit flavors like blueberry, cherry, or peach. Just remember that the texture and sweetness may vary, so you might want to adjust the sugar accordingly in the cream cheese layer. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and melted unsalted butter. Stir until fully blended, then transfer the mixture to your baking dish, pressing it down evenly.
- Beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and kosher salt in a stand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes. Spread this mixture over the cake base.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling over the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and bubbly, while the center remains slightly jiggly. Let it cool for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Slice when ready to enjoy! Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.