There's nothing quite like the magic of a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fresh out of the oven. The sweet aroma of strawberries mingling with creamy cheesecake and buttery cake mix is pure comfort in dessert form. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this simple yet decadent dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a last-minute dessert for a family get-together. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, I had a luscious, layered cake baking away while I entertained guests. It has since become a go-to dessert for busy nights and special occasions alike.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that's as easy as it is delicious. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss treat with a rich, creamy, and fruity flavor profile.

First off, it's unbelievably easy to make. No mixing, no fancy equipment—just layer the ingredients and let the oven do the work. Perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.

The flavor combination is irresistible. The tartness of the strawberries balances beautifully with the creamy cheesecake, while the buttery cake mix creates a crisp topping that adds texture to every bite.

It's budget-friendly, too. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it's versatile. Swap out the fruit filling, use different cake mixes, or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of textures and taste.

Canned strawberry pie filling serves as the base of this cake. It provides the perfect amount of sweetness and moisture while delivering that classic strawberry flavor. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can use fresh strawberries mixed with sugar and cornstarch.

Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer. Softened cream cheese dollops create rich, tangy pockets throughout the cake, giving it that signature cheesecake taste. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.

Yellow cake mix forms the golden, buttery topping. When sprinkled over the fruit and combined with melted butter, it creates a crisp, crumbly crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling. Vanilla or white cake mix can also work if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile.

Melted butter brings everything together. Pouring it over the dry cake mix helps create a perfectly golden topping that’s slightly crisp on the outside while remaining tender underneath.

For an extra touch of indulgence, you can add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel on top before baking.

How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Making this delightful dessert couldn't be easier. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a warm, decadent cake ready to enjoy.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.

Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer provides the base flavor and ensures every bite is bursting with strawberry goodness.

Next, dollop softened cream cheese over the strawberry layer. You don’t need to mix—just drop small spoonfuls across the top. As the cake bakes, these pockets of cream cheese will melt into the filling, creating that classic cheesecake texture.

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the strawberry and cream cheese layers. Make sure to cover the entire surface without stirring. This technique creates the signature “dump cake” texture, where the dry mix transforms into a buttery, crumbly topping.

Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring even coverage. The butter will soak into the mix as it bakes, helping to create a golden-brown crust with just the right amount of crunch.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake stores beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The cheesecake layer helps keep the dessert moist, making it just as delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.

To reheat, simply microwave a serving for 20-30 seconds until warm. If reheating a larger portion, cover with foil and bake in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily switch up the flavors to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.

Try using different fruit fillings for a new twist. Cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling all work beautifully with the cheesecake layer and cake mix topping.

Swap the yellow cake mix for vanilla, white, or even chocolate cake mix to create a different flavor combination. A chocolate-strawberry version is particularly decadent.

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and a sugar-free cake mix. The result will still be rich and delicious with fewer calories.

If you love a little crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts over the top before baking. They add a delightful texture and enhance the buttery topping.

Experiment with mix-ins like shredded coconut, white chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for an extra layer of sweetness.

No matter how you make it, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is sure to be a hit. Have fun customizing it to your taste and enjoy every delicious bite!