The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re daydreaming about a dessert that’s outrageously easy and utterly irresistible, you’ve just stumbled onto your next obsession: The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Imagine luscious layers of strawberry, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake, blanketed with whipped topping and jeweled with fresh strawberries. This fuss-free, crowd-pleasing treat delivers all the show-stopping flavor of a classic cheesecake—in a fraction of the time and effort. No special skills needed, just a love for incredible flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake starts with simple ingredients that team up to create a dessert that’s much greater than the sum of its parts. Each one has a distinct role: some add richness, others bring brightness, and together, they create a harmony of flavors and textures you’ll crave.

• Yellow cake mix: The ultimate shortcut, delivering a tender, golden crust every time—no measuring flour required!
• Unsalted butter (melted): Adds decadent richness and helps create those dreamy, crispy edges on top.
• Strawberry pie filling: Sweet, syrupy strawberries anchor the cake with bright flavor and radiant color.
• Cream cheese (softened): Whips up into a creamy, tangy layer that mimics classic cheesecake.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer just enough, balancing all those bold strawberry notes.
• Vanilla extract: One teaspoon brings warmth and roundness, giving the creamy layer a bakery-fresh depth.
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed: The fluffy finishing touch, making every bite feel light and celebratory.
• Fresh strawberries (halved or whole, optional): They make every slice a little fancier and add a burst of freshness.
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): A final snowy sprinkle for elegance and just a whisper of extra sweetness.

How to Make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking, so you get every beautiful scoop out effortlessly—no wrestling required!

Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat them together until you have a smooth, fluffy mixture with no lumps. This creates that signature creamy layer you’ll recognize in every bite of The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.

Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Filling

Spoon the strawberry pie filling straight from the cans and spread it evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the juicy, fruity foundation—the first bright pop of flavor when you dig in.

Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Mixture

Dollop your whipped cheesecake mixture over the strawberry layer and carefully spread it out as evenly as you can. Don’t stress if it isn’t perfect—some swirls and pockets are part of the dump cake’s rustic charm!

Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix right from the box over the cheesecake layer. Try to cover every bit; this is what will bake into a tender, craggy top.

Step 6: Drizzle on the Butter

Pour the melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix, aiming for as much coverage as possible. This helps every bite get toasty and golden, with irresistible buttery flavor.

Step 7: Bake and Chill

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and deep golden. Let it cool for about 30 minutes—this helps set the layers. If you want firmer layers (and neater slices), pop it in the fridge to chill longer.

Step 8: Top and Serve

Once cooled, spread your whipped topping lavishly over the cake, then garnish with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar if you like. Now, dig in—The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is ready to wow!

How to Serve The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Garnishes

Level up each serving with a handful of fresh strawberries—halved, fanned, or left whole for striking contrast. A delicate snowfall of powdered sugar instantly transforms every slice into something worthy of a bakery window. Feeling extra? Try a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a few mint leaves!

Side Dishes

The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is dreamy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, especially while it’s still slightly warm. For something lighter, pair it with a cup of hot coffee or a freshly brewed herbal tea—let the cake be the star!

Creative Ways to Present

Make it party-ready by scooping the dump cake into individual dessert cups, layering with extra whip or crushed vanilla cookies. In spring or summer, serve slices on bright, colorful plates with plenty of fresh berries scattered around for a festival of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container and place in the refrigerator. The cake will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors meld even more over time.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! Cut it into portions, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready for another slice, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. Add the whipped topping and fresh fruit just before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?

Absolutely! This dump cake is ultra-versatile. Try blueberry, cherry, or even peach pie filling for an easy flavor twist. Just keep quantities the same for best results.

Do I have to use whipped topping, or can I use real whipped cream?

You can definitely use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping if you prefer a homemade touch. Just whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until soft peaks form and use as directed!

Can I make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in advance?

Yes, you can make it the day before your gathering. Chill fully, then add the whipped topping and garnishes just before serving to keep everything fresh and light.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

It’s easy to make this dump cake gluten-free! Just swap the yellow cake mix for your favorite gluten-free brand. Double-check that your pie filling and other ingredients are gluten-free too.

How do I get cleaner slices?

For neat layers, let the cake cool fully and chill in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing. Use a sharp, damp knife to cut and wipe between slices—it makes all the difference for presentation!

Final Thoughts

Once you experience the irresistible mix of flavors and effortless method, you’ll want to make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for every occasion—or just because! It’s pure comfort, maximum flavor, and guaranteed smiles in every spoonful. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this crowd-pleaser; there’s no better way to share a sweet moment.

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