There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake filling your kitchen. This delightful dessert combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries, all topped with a golden, buttery cake crust.

The first time I made this, I was looking for a simple yet impressive dessert for a last-minute gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I had a decadent treat that everyone raved about. Now, it’s a staple in my recipe collection, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a cozy night at home.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a must-try for so many reasons.

First, it’s unbelievably simple. No complicated steps, no fancy techniques—just layer the ingredients and let the oven work its magic. Even beginner bakers can make this with confidence.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using common pantry staples and a boxed cake mix, you can whip up a dessert that tastes gourmet without breaking the bank.

Versatility is another highlight. Want to switch up the flavors? Use different fruit pie fillings or add extra mix-ins to customize it to your taste.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a firmer texture, this dessert is guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake comes from a handful of carefully chosen ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Canned strawberry pie filling serves as the fruity base of the cake. Its sweet, slightly tart flavor complements the creamy cheesecake layer and buttery topping beautifully.

The cream cheese is what gives this dump cake its luscious, cheesecake-like texture. I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best richness and flavor. Cut it into small cubes so that it melts evenly throughout the cake.

A box of yellow cake mix is the secret to a crispy, golden topping. Simply sprinkle it over the layers without mixing. If you want an extra pop of flavor, try using a butter or vanilla cake mix instead.

Melted butter brings everything together, creating that signature crunchy topping. Make sure to drizzle it evenly over the dry cake mix to avoid any powdery spots.

For a little extra sweetness, I like to add a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the finished cake. It enhances the presentation and gives each bite a delightful hint of extra flavor.

How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to bring it together in just a few steps.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Next, scatter the cream cheese cubes over the strawberry layer. The key here is to distribute them evenly so that every bite gets that creamy cheesecake flavor.

Now, sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the top. Resist the urge to stir—just let it sit on top of the layers, as it will absorb the butter and form a delicious crust as it bakes.

Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix as evenly as possible. This step ensures that the cake mix bakes up golden brown and crispy, without leaving any dry patches.

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be extremely hot.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this dump cake stores beautifully. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Chilling it gives the cheesecake layer an even firmer texture, making it a delicious next-day treat.

To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warm. You can also enjoy it cold, straight from the fridge, for a more cheesecake-like experience.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch things up to suit your preferences or ingredient availability.

Swap the strawberry pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different fruit twist. Each variation brings a new flavor dimension to the dessert.

If you prefer a richer cheesecake flavor, add a few dollops of sweetened condensed milk over the cream cheese layer before adding the cake mix.

For extra crunch, sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. The nutty contrast pairs beautifully with the buttery cake.

Want a slightly lighter version? Use a sugar-free cake mix and a low-fat cream cheese alternative to cut down on calories while keeping the dessert delicious.

Experiment with flavored cake mixes! A strawberry or white cake mix enhances the fruity flavor, while a chocolate cake mix creates a strawberry-chocolate delight.

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is proof that easy desserts can still be incredibly indulgent. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just a cozy treat, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try it out and let me know your favorite variations!