Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate dessert shortcut that’s equally luscious and impressive, Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake absolutely delivers! Imagine creamy layers of cheesecake, bursts of sweet strawberries, and a buttery golden topping—all with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This dessert is the definition of cozy baking, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a quiet evening at home. One bowl, one pan, and a whole lot of deliciousness—let’s get baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features a handful of humble staples that join forces to create an irresistible treat. Each ingredient packs a punch: the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors meld perfectly, while the bake itself couldn’t be more straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each addition is essential:

• Vanilla cake mix: The dry mix adds an instant fluffy, golden crust without any hassle—no measuring flour or sugar required.
• Cream cheese (8-ounce package, softened): Lending that classic cheesecake richness, softened for easy mixing and an extra-silky texture.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tangy depth and keeps the cheesecake layer fabulously creamy.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Brings balanced sweetness to the cheesecake mix.
• Strawberry pie filling (21-ounce can): Delivers lovely fruit pockets and a pop of jammy, tart flavor throughout the cake.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Gives the cake topping that decadent, golden finish and soaks into the cake mix for extra richness.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Helps to moisten the cake mix for a perfectly tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A must for warmth and bakery-fresh aroma in every bite.

How to Make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the dump cake bakes evenly. A quick coat of nonstick spray or a light greasing of your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish guarantees easy serving and keeps every scrumptious bit intact.

Step 2: Mix Up the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and granulated sugar. For best results, use a hand or stand mixer to whip everything into a smooth, velvety mixture. This makes the base seriously creamy and utterly irresistible once baked.

Step 3: Spread Out the Cream Cheese Mixture

Dollop the cream cheese blend across the bottom of your prepared pan and, using a spatula, spread it into an even layer. This forms the foundation for that rich, cheesecake flavor in every forkful.

Step 4: Add the Strawberry Layer

Carefully spoon the strawberry pie filling on top of the cream cheese. Gently spread the strawberries so there’s a bit in every bite—those pops of juicy, sweet berries truly make this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake shine!

Step 5: Sprinkle with Cake Mix

Open your box of vanilla cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the top. Don’t stir! Just let the cake mix sit as a layer—this will create the signature crumbly, golden topping as it bakes.

Step 6: Drizzle with Butter, Milk, and Vanilla

Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Then, drizzle the milk and vanilla extract over top as well. These liquids melt together with the cake mix, creating luscious bites with a touch of bakery-style richness.

Step 7: Bake

Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks beautifully golden and is bubbling at the edges. Your kitchen will smell incredible!

Step 8: Cool, Serve, and Savor

Let your Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake cool for a few minutes. It’s fantastic served warm for ooey-gooey comfort, or cooled to let the layers firm up for neater squares. Enjoy every dreamy bite!

How to Serve Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Garnishes

The finishing touch is where you can let your creativity shine! Try a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of fresh sliced strawberries, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. For special occasions, a handful of toasted sliced almonds or white chocolate shavings add shine and crunch.

Side Dishes

While this cake is a showstopper all by itself, it’s also lovely paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or tangy lemon sorbet. If you want a touch of savory, serve with a mug of robust coffee or a lightly sweetened iced tea to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon portions into pretty dessert glasses or mason jars for a picnic-friendly option. Cut cooled squares and serve on a chic platter for parties. Add a heart-shaped strawberry on top for Valentine’s Day, or use colorful sprinkles to match any celebration—Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is always crowd-pleasing!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dessert stores beautifully! Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—the flavors just keep getting better.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the whole pan well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When craving strikes, just thaw in the fridge overnight for an easy treat.

Reheating

If you prefer your Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm, simply pop a piece in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. Or, reheat in a 300°F oven covered loosely with foil until heated through. The creaminess comes right back!

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit filling?

Absolutely! This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Try cherry, blueberry, raspberry, or even peach pie filling—the results are always delicious.

Do I have to use boxed cake mix, or can I make it from scratch?

Boxed mix is the key to “dump and go” ease, but if you have a homemade vanilla cake mix you love, by all means use it! Just keep measurements close to what the box provides for best results.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese or sour cream?

You sure can. Light or reduced-fat options work well, but keep in mind you might lose a touch of the creamy richness. If you’re looking to lighten things up, it’s still utterly tasty.

Is Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake best warm or chilled?

That’s totally up to you! Warm, it’s gooey and comforting. Chilled, it cuts cleaner and the flavors meld together—try it both ways and pick your favorite!

Can I make this dessert ahead for a party?

Definitely. This recipe is ideal for prepping ahead—just assemble and bake, then chill until your event. You can even make it a day in advance; it holds its creamy layers like a dream.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall head over heels for a quick and unforgettable dessert, whip up this Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for your next gathering—or simply keep it all to yourself! One pan, endless joy. I hope you enjoy every creamy, strawberry-packed bite as much as I do.

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