If you’re craving a dessert that combines the sweet, fruity freshness of strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, look no further than this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, effortlessly blending a luscious strawberry pie filling, a dreamy cream cheese layer, and a simple cake mix topping that bakes into golden deliciousness. This dessert is as easy as it is irresistible, making it an instant favorite to whip up again and again without any fuss in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simple, approachable ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and irresistible textures, so be sure to gather them all for the best results.
- Strawberry cake mix: This brings a wonderful strawberry flavor and a soft crumbly topping when baked.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled over the cake mix, it promotes a beautifully browned, moist crust.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates the creamy cheesecake layer that’s rich and velvety.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake layer perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Strawberry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Offers juicy, fruity sweetness and juicy pockets throughout the cake.
- Whipped cream: Optional garnish that adds lightness and creaminess on top.
- Fresh strawberries: For a pop of color and fresh strawberry flavor when serving.
How to Make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this ensures your cake won’t stick and makes for easier serving later.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
Next, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This luscious layer gives the dump cake that classic cheesecake vibe that’s so dreamy.
Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. This juicy layer acts like a fruity foundation, bursting with strawberry flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Gently spoon the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to lightly swirl the two layers together—this creates a beautiful marbled effect once baked.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix Over Everything
Evenly sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. This ensures the classic “dump cake” taste and texture on top—no mixing bowl needed here!
Step 6: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter slowly and evenly all over the cake mix. This is the secret to that golden, crisp crust you’ll love, soaking into the cake mix as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Pop the whole dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll want to watch for a bubbly, golden brown top—this signals it’s perfectly done and ready to enjoy.
Step 8: Cool Then Serve
Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving so the layers settle nicely. Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation and extra freshness.
How to Serve No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the cake’s dense, creamy layers. Scatter a few fresh strawberries on top for a burst of color and brightness, enhancing the strawberry flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This cake goes beautifully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast. A cup of hot coffee or a chilled glass of milk pairs just right to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in pretty dessert glasses layered with extra fresh strawberry slices between scoops. Or, try dusting with a little powdered sugar and adding a sprig of mint for an elegant touch perfect for guests or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can tightly cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe also freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers before freezing, and keep it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture before reheating or serving cold.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, heat small portions gently in the microwave or place the whole dish covered in a 325°F oven until heated through. This will revive its gooey, comforting texture and fresh strawberry essence.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
While fresh strawberries are wonderful, canned pie filling offers the juicy consistency and sweetness essential to this dump cake’s texture. You could prepare a homemade strawberry compote if you prefer fresh fruit, but it may alter the moisture balance slightly.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese before mixing?
Yes, softening the cream cheese leads to a smooth and lump-free cheesecake layer. If it’s too cold, you may end up with clumps that affect the cake’s luscious texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the strawberry cake mix for a gluten-free version, and double-check your pie filling ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free too. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you need a substitute for melted butter, melted coconut oil works well and adds a subtle nutty flavor. Just use the same amount, and you’ll still get that golden crust effect.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
Make sure to evenly layer your ingredients and avoid stirring after adding the cake mix and butter. The melted butter drizzling ensures a crispy top, while the layers underneath stay perfectly moist but not soggy.
Final Thoughts
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is the kind of dessert that wins hearts without demanding hours in the kitchen. Its irresistible combination of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping is simply unforgettable. Trust me, once you try making it, it will become your go-to dessert for boisterous family dinners or cozy nights in. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every single scrumptious bite!
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No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert combining layers of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and strawberry cake mix. With minimal prep and a single baking step, this recipe offers a deliciously moist and fruity cake topped with golden melted butter. Perfect for gatherings or a simple sweet treat, it can be served with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fruit Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Set this aside for layering.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling along the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Next, spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling and gently swirl it to create a marbled effect.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the strawberry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and pie filling layers, ensuring full coverage.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix layer, covering as much of the surface as possible to help it bake into a moist and golden topping.
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the top turns golden brown and begins to bubble around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. For a beautiful presentation and extra flavor, garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries as desired.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps when mixing.
- Swirling the cream cheese layer gently creates a nice marbling effect but avoid over-mixing.
- If you prefer, you can substitute frozen strawberries for fresh as garnish, thawed and drained.
- This dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For easier slicing, chill the cake slightly after baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
