If you love easy, crowd-pleasing desserts that taste as though you spent hours in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat with this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! This magical dessert combines the juicy sweetness of strawberry pie filling, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a buttery crust, all nestled together under a perfectly golden topping. Each spoonful is a nostalgic, strawberry-kissed hug—plus, it’s as effortless to make as it is irresistible. Whether you serve it warm with whipped cream or sneak slices straight from the fridge, this recipe is about to earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday basics, you’ll be amazed at how each simple ingredient transforms the No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake into something truly memorable. Each element brings its own magic, whether it’s richness, tang, color, or a boost of fresh flavor.
- Strawberry pie filling (1 21-ounce can): The star of the show, bursting with bright strawberry flavor and eye-catching color—no slicing or prepping needed!
- Cream cheese (1 8-ounce package, softened): Adds that dreamy, cheesecake-like tang and creaminess right in the middle of your cake.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer, balancing tang with just the right amount of sugariness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla boosts the cozy, bakery-style aroma and flavor.
- Yellow or white cake mix (1 box): The “dump” part—just sprinkle it on for a perfectly sweet, tender crust every single time.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled over the cake mix, butter creates those golden, crispy bits everyone fights over.
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional): For a pop of color and a hint of freshness on top—totally optional but always pretty.
- Whipped cream for serving (optional): Pillowy, creamy, and the perfect finish to each scoop of warm or chilled dump cake.
How to Make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Set the Stage
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step guarantees nothing will stick, so your No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake releases with beautiful, golden edges every time.
Step 2: Layer That Gorgeous Strawberry Base
Crack open the can of strawberry pie filling and spread it out evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This deeply flavorful layer is what gives your dump cake its summery vibe and jams every bite with juicy berries.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, creamy, and lump-free. Drop spoonfuls of this dreamy cheesecake mixture over the strawberry filling, then gently swirl it all together with a knife or spatula—just enough to create luscious ribbons that’ll bake into a marbled masterpiece.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Magic
Grab your box of yellow or white cake mix and sprinkle it thoroughly over the entire surface of the strawberry and cream cheese layers. Don’t press it down—simply let it float there like a fluffy blanket, ready to transform into that sought-after buttery crust.
Step 5: Drizzle, Bake, and Watch the Magic Happen
Drizzle the melted unsalted butter as evenly as you can across the top of the cake mix. Make sure it gets into as many dry spots as possible; that’s what creates those golden, crispy pockets. Bake your dump cake in the oven for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and beautifully browned on top. Let it cool just a bit so it sets perfectly before serving.
How to Serve No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Garnishes
Top slices of your No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of fresh strawberry slices. The cream adds an extra lightness, while the strawberries offer a fresh, juicy note that echoes the flavors inside the cake.
Side Dishes
This dessert loves to play the star, but it’s equally wonderful when paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a mug of hot coffee, or even a fruity iced tea. Each pairing enhances the dump cake’s creamy, sweet charm.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cake in elegant parfait glasses, layering cubes of dump cake with extra whipped cream for an eye-catching trifle. Or, cut squares and arrange them atop individual plates, crowned with whole strawberries for a “mini dessert” feel that’s perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, wrap leftover No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake tightly with plastic or keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays irresistibly fresh and moist for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Want to stash some for later? Simply portion out cooled dump cake, wrap each serving well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when cravings strike.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a serving into the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm larger portions in a low oven (300°F/150°C) until just heated through. This brings back all the soft creaminess and makes the top just a bit crisp again.
FAQs
Can I use a different pie filling?
Absolutely! While strawberry is classic, cherry or blueberry pie filling work beautifully for a fun flavor twist in your No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Just swap them in and follow the same method.
Do I need to mix the cake mix with anything?
No stirring is required! Simply sprinkle the dry cake mix right on top of the filling and cream cheese layer—then drizzle the butter over it. The magic happens as it bakes.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Forgot to set your cream cheese out? No problem! Cut it into cubes and microwave in 10-second bursts until just soft enough to mix. This helps ensure a smooth, lump-free cream cheese swirl.
Can I make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free yellow or white cake mix and double-check that your pie filling is gluten free—your dump cake will be just as delicious and safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Why is there still dry cake mix on top after baking?
A few dry patches are common, especially if some areas weren’t covered with butter. You can lightly mist those spots with a little extra melted butter in the last 10 minutes, or simply embrace the rustic look—rest assured, the flavors shine through regardless.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll be passing the recipe to everyone you know—promise! It puts smiles on faces with minimal effort, and it’s a perfect treat for any day you want a little homemade magic. Go ahead and give it a try; your tastebuds (and friends) will thank you!
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No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry pie filling with this easy-to-make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is a real crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Strawberry Cheesecake Layer:
- 1 (21-ounce) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dump Cake Layer:
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the strawberry pie filling in the dish.
- Cheesecake Layer: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the pie filling, swirl gently.
- Dump Cake Assembly: Sprinkle cake mix over the top. Drizzle with melted butter evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cool before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature with optional whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Notes
- Try blueberry or cherry pie filling as variations.
- For added texture, top with chopped pecans or sliced almonds before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
