If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a hug on a plate and is unbelievably easy to whip up, this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a luscious mix of creamy cheesecake, bright strawberry flavors, and a golden, buttery cake topping—all layered effortlessly in one pan. Whether you’re a novice baker or just want a sweet treat without the hassle, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as delicious as it is simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe shines because of its straightforward, vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and cakey textures.
- Strawberry cake mix (15.25 oz): The base that brings sweetness and that irresistible strawberry flavor and texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and helps the cake mix create that golden, crisp topping.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Delivers the creamy, tangy cheesecake layer everyone loves.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling smoothly and evenly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the cheesecake flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Strawberry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Bursting with vibrant, juicy strawberries for that fresh fruit punch.
- Whipped cream: A light and airy finishing touch that complements rich flavors effortlessly.
- Fresh strawberries: Adds a fresh, bright pop for garnish and extra strawberry goodness.
How to Make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake won’t stick and will come out with perfect edges. This simple prep step sets the stage for all the goodness to follow.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is luxuriously smooth. This mixture forms the luscious cheesecake layer that gives this dessert its signature tangy richness.
Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly on the bottom of your prepared pan. This juicy layer is packed with sweet strawberries and adds a beautiful, fruity base for the cheesecake flavor to sit on.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Spoon the cream cheese filling over the strawberry pie layer, swirling it gently with a knife or spoon to create a lovely marbled effect. This technique not only looks stunning but ensures every bite has that divine combination of flavors.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the strawberry cake mix over the creamy layers. This dry cake mix will transform into a golden, moist topping as it bakes, sealing in the juicy strawberries and creamy cheesecake below.
Step 6: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter thoughtfully over the cake mix. Cover as much surface as you can to help the cake topping become wonderfully crisp and golden brown during baking—it’s what makes this “dump cake” so magical.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Bake your dessert for 40 to 45 minutes or until you see the topping turn a gorgeous golden brown and the whole dish is bubbling around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly.
Step 8: Cool Slightly and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the dessert cool slightly so it sets a bit for easier serving. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream and some fresh strawberries on top to make each slice shine and feel extra special.
How to Serve No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding whipped cream and fresh strawberries is like giving this cake a fresh bouquet of flavor and texture. The airy whipped cream offers a lovely contrast to the dense cheesecake, while the fresh strawberries bring brightness and a burst of natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn this dessert into a mini celebration, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to balance the fruity tartness. A cup of hot coffee or tea makes the perfect companion too, rounding out the experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an adorable twist, serve this dump cake in individual ramekins or mason jars. Layer the pieces with whipped cream and strawberries on top for a charming presentation that looks like you spent hours crafting something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This storage helps maintain its moisture and freshness.
Freezing
Wrap leftover cake tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a gentle reheating if desired.
Reheating
To warm up portions, pop slices into the oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave briefly. Soft and cozy, the flavors will be just as vibrant as on day one.
FAQs
Can I use a different pie filling in this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry is classic, cherry, blueberry, or even peach pie fillings can be swapped in to create exciting new flavor twists with the same ease and deliciousness.
Do I have to use cream cheese softened at room temperature?
Yes, softening the cream cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture for the cheesecake layer. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps and make it harder to mix evenly.
Is it important to pour the butter evenly over the cake mix?
Yes, distributing the melted butter as evenly as possible helps the cake mix bake into a crispy, golden topping that perfectly balances the moist filling underneath.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
If you can find a gluten-free strawberry cake mix, this recipe can be adapted easily. Just confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
What’s the best way to serve leftover cake?
Serve leftover cake chilled or warmed slightly with extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish to another day.
Final Thoughts
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe may be one of the simplest and most delicious desserts you’ll ever make, perfect for any occasion when you want something sweet, homemade, and utterly satisfying. It’s humble in its ingredients but spectacular in flavor—a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with dessert all over again.
Print
No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that layers creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberry pie filling, and moist strawberry cake mix for a crowd-pleasing treat. With minimal prep and a single baking pan, it’s perfect for easy entertaining or a quick, impressive dessert.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fruit Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Toppings
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make cheesecake mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside.
- Layer fruit filling: Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling on the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a flavorful base layer.
- Add cheesecake layer: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Swirl gently with a spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle cake mix: Evenly distribute the dry strawberry cake mix over the top of the layered filling and cream cheese.
- Pour melted butter: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible to ensure moistness during baking.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an extra special touch.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother cheesecake layer.
- If you prefer a more pronounced swirl pattern, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese and pie filling before adding the cake mix.
- This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat slightly before serving if desired.
- Feel free to substitute strawberry pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for variety.
- Use unsalted butter to better control the salt content, but salted butter can be used if preferred.
