
This easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is my go-to dessert for potlucks and family gatherings. With just a few simple steps and barely any prep, you get the best of both worlds featuring the creaminess of cheesecake, the brightness of strawberries, and the buttery crunch of a classic dump cake. Whenever I serve this at parties, not a crumb goes to waste
The first time I made this was for a summer barbecue. It was gone within minutes and everyone asked for the recipe. I now make it for birthdays and holidays and people always want seconds
Ingredients
- Yellow cake mix: adds a fluffy buttery top that gets beautifully golden in the oven Use a high-quality mix for the best results
- Unsalted butter: brings rich flavor and helps crisp up the cake layer Choose a fresh stick and melt it gently for even coverage
- Strawberry pie filling: creates a sweet tangy base bursting with berry flavor Look for ones with whole strawberries for better texture
- Cream cheese: gives the middle a creamy cheesecake layer Take it out of the fridge in advance for easy mixing
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the cheesecake component Check that it is fine and fresh so it blends smoothly
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavors and adds a lovely aroma Go for pure extract for best taste
- Whipped topping: makes a light creamy finish Use real whipped topping rather than a substitute for the fluffiest topping
- Fresh strawberries: optional but they make a beautiful juicy garnish Choose bright red berries without bruises
- Powdered sugar: optional for dusting on top for that bakery-style finish Sift before sprinkling for even coverage
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so the cake releases easily after baking
- Mix the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a medium bowl blend softened cream cheese granulated sugar and vanilla extract until you have a smooth creamy mixture with no lumps
- Layer the Strawberry Base:
- Pour both cans of strawberry pie filling into the bottom of your prepared dish Spread it out to cover the whole surface for an even fruity base
- Add the Cheesecake Layer:
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling Gently spread it edge to edge creating a thick creamy layer over the berries
- Top with Cake Mix:
- Sprinkle the entire box of dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer Use your hands or a spoon for an even distribution
- Add the Butter:
- Slowly drizzle the melted butter all across the surface of the dry cake mix Try to cover as much as possible for a golden crispy topping
- Bake the Cake:
- Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for forty to forty five minutes The top should be golden brown and bubbling around the edges
- Cool and Set:
- Let the cake cool on a wire rack for at least thirty minutes so the layers can firm up For cleaner slices you can even chill it in the fridge
- Add Toppings and Serve:
- Spread whipped topping evenly on the cooled cake Garnish with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar if you like Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature

Strawberries have always been my favorite fruit and layering them with creamy cheesecake feels just a little indulgent Every time I pull this from the oven my kitchen smells like summertime and happy memories
Storage Tips
This dump cake keeps well covered tightly in the fridge for up to four days I find the flavors only get better overnight For longer storage freeze individual slices in airtight containers and thaw as needed for a quick treat
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using cherry or blueberry pie filling in place of the strawberry for a tasty twist If you do not have whipped topping you can whip up one cup of heavy cream with a spoonful of sugar until soft peaks form Mascarpone cheese is a great swap for cream cheese if you want a richer flavor
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this cake chilled for summer picnics or lightly warmed in the winter with a scoop of vanilla ice cream It also makes a pretty centerpiece at brunch with a mix of fresh berries on top
Cultural Note
Dump cakes first took off in American kitchens in the mid twentieth century as they made homemade desserts accessible for busy families The combination of convenience and comfort food flavors is why recipes like this have never gone out of style
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
For the best results and consistent texture, stick with strawberry pie filling. Fresh berries won’t offer the same syrupy consistency or flavor intensity, but you can add fresh strawberries as a garnish for a burst of freshness.
- → Do I need to soften the cream cheese first?
Yes, softened cream cheese blends smoothly with sugar and vanilla. Cold cream cheese can be lumpy, so let it sit at room temperature before mixing for the creamiest results.
- → How do I get a crispier cake topping?
Ensure the melted butter is evenly drizzled over the dry cake mix. For extra crunch, sprinkle a bit of coarse sugar on top before baking, and bake until golden and bubbling.
- → Can I serve this dessert chilled?
Absolutely! Chill the cake after baking for more defined layers and a refreshing summer treat, or serve warm for a softer, gooier bite.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to three days. The cake tastes great cold, and a quick reheat will restore its freshly baked warmth if you prefer.
- → Can I use other pie fillings?
Yes, cherry or blueberry pie filling makes delicious alternatives. Adjust toppings and garnishes to match the flavor you choose.