If you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and utterly delightful with minimal effort, this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the joys of creamy cheesecake, bright strawberry flavor, and the irresistible texture of a buttery cake topping, this dessert comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to impress without stress, offering a luscious treat that feels homemade but practically makes itself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe’s beauty lies in its straightforward, simple ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect sweet-tart balance and creamy yet crumbly texture. You’ll find this No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is both inviting and accessible, with flavors that naturally complement each other.
- Strawberry cake mix: Provides the cake base with a burst of strawberry sweetness and a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden, slightly crispy top layer when drizzled over the cake mix.
- Cream cheese: Gives the dessert a lovely creamy richness that contrasts perfectly with the fruit.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese smoothly, making it effortlessly luscious.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- Strawberry pie filling: Infuses the dish with juicy, natural strawberry pieces and syrupy goodness.
- Whipped cream: Optional but highly recommended for serving to add a light, airy finish.
- Fresh strawberries: For garnish and an extra pop of fresh fruitiness and color.
How to Make No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Before you dive into the fun layers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl and beat them until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This fluffy layer adds a tangy richness that balances the sweet strawberry flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Filling and Cream Cheese
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly at the bottom of your greased pan. Next, gently spoon the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl it slightly into the fruit for a luscious marbled effect. This layering gives the cake its signature creamy and fruity pockets.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix Evenly
Sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Make sure it’s spread evenly to cover all the gooey layers beneath, which helps form the perfect crumbly topping.
Step 5: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top. It might seem like a small step, but this butter creates that golden, crispy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see the mixture bubbling around the edges. That bubbling is a telltale sign your No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is ready to come out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Prepare to Serve
Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving. This resting time helps everything set nicely so each piece holds its delicious layers when you cut into it.
How to Serve No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a dollop of whipped cream on top creates a dreamy, light finish that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheesecake layer. A few fresh strawberries not only brighten the plate but also enhance the natural strawberry flavor and add a lovely pop of color.
Side Dishes
This dessert stands beautifully on its own but if you want to be extra indulgent, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Either choice complements the sweet and tangy elements of the cake without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a pretty touch, serve this dump cake in clear glass dishes or individual ramekins so the layers are visible. You can also sprinkle a few crushed graham crackers or toasted almonds on top for an added crunch and visual appeal. These small touches make this recipe feel extra-special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its wonderful flavors and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, freeze the baked and cooled cake in an airtight container. When stored properly, it can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To warm up your leftovers, place a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute, or heat in a low oven just until warmed through. This will revive the gooey, creamy texture without drying out the cake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While the strawberry cake mix perfectly complements the pie filling, you can experiment with white or yellow cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind it will alter the flavor balance slightly.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Softening the cream cheese is important for mixing it smoothly with the powdered sugar and vanilla. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps or uneven texture, so leave it out for about 30 minutes before starting.
Can I substitute fresh strawberries for the pie filling?
You could, but the pie filling adds sweetness and moisture that fresh strawberries alone might not provide. If you want to use fresh fruit, consider making a quick sweet syrup or compote to replicate that same effect.
Why do I need to drizzle melted butter on top?
The melted butter saturates the cake mix as it bakes, creating a golden brown, crispy crust rather than a dry topping. It’s a crucial step for the texture that makes this a true dump cake.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substituting for gluten-free cake mix and ensuring your pie filling is gluten-free would make this recipe accessible for gluten-sensitive eaters. Just check all labels carefully for hidden gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe marries fresh strawberry flavors with creamy cheesecake and a buttery cake topping like a dream come true. It’s one of those special recipes you’ll turn to when you want to wow family and friends with minimal fuss but maximum wow. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to dessert for gatherings, celebrations, or sweet moments anytime.
Print
No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No-Fuss Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy and delicious dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fruity sweetness of strawberry pie filling and strawberry cake mix. Layered and baked in a single pan, it delivers a beautiful swirled effect and a golden, bubbly top—perfect for a quick dessert that feels indulgent without the fuss.
Ingredients
Cheesecake 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) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick and bakes evenly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside for layering later.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Then spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling and gently swirl them together to create a marbled effect.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix over the cream cheese and strawberry layers, covering the surface entirely.
- Drizzle Butter: Slowly pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter helps the cake mix bake into a moist, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown and the filling should be bubbling around the edges when done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- You can substitute the strawberry pie filling with another fruit pie filling like blueberry or cherry if desired.
- This dessert is best served slightly warm but can also be enjoyed chilled.
- For easier slicing, let the cake cool completely and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Use fresh strawberries for garnish to add freshness and extra flavor contrast.
