When you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake hits the sweet spot. This indulgent treat combines luscious strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake swirls, and a buttery golden cake topping in a way that’s effortlessly elegant yet comfortingly classic. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and almost no prep time, this dessert is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or anytime you’re craving something warm, gooey, and totally irresistible.
What Is a Dump Cake?
If you’re new to the concept of a dump cake, prepare to fall in love. Dump cakes are a vintage-inspired dessert known for their minimal effort and maximum flavor. As the name suggests, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish—no mixing bowls, stand mixers, or complicated instructions needed.
Think of it as a hybrid between a cobbler and a cake, but even easier. Typically, the base is a sweet canned fruit or pie filling, topped with a boxed cake mix and sliced butter. As it bakes, the butter melts into the cake mix, creating a golden, crispy topping with a soft and fruity center underneath.
This version ups the ante with a swirl of tangy cream cheese—turning your average dump cake into a cheesecake lover’s dream.
Ingredients Breakdown (U.S. Cup Measurements)
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1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
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1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or vanilla cake mix
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted cold butter, sliced
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Add the Strawberry Layer
Pour the strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the baking dish. If you’re using fresh strawberries, sprinkle them evenly over the pie filling. This adds texture and bright flavor.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or mix by hand until there are no lumps.
Drop spoonfuls of this cream cheese mixture across the top of the strawberry filling. It doesn’t need to be perfectly even—part of the charm is the random pockets of cheesecake.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix (straight from the box) over the entire dish. Don’t press it down—just let it rest on top.
Step 5: Add the Butter
Place the cold butter slices across the top of the cake mix. Space them as evenly as possible to ensure the top bakes up golden and crispy.
Pro tip: Cold butter is essential. It melts slowly while baking, creating that coveted crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let the cake rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm or at room temperature. It’s excellent on its own or topped with:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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A dollop of whipped cream
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A drizzle of white chocolate sauce
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Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Prep Time & Nutritional Info
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
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Total Time: ~1 hour
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Calories: Approx. 440 kcal per serving
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Yields 10–12 servings depending on portion size