Only 5 Ingredients and Zero Hassle Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the definition of easy dessert baking. It comes together with minimal prep, no mixers, and no complicated steps, making it perfect for busy days, last-minute guests, or when you just want something sweet without the effort. Juicy strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake pockets, and a buttery cake topping bake into a warm, comforting dessert that tastes far more indulgent than the effort it requires. Everything is layered right in the baking dish, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the result. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled straight from the fridge. Either way, this dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8 to 10
Ingredients
Yellow or white cake mix: 1 box (15.25 oz)
Strawberry pie filling: 1 can (21 oz)
Cream cheese: 1 package (8 oz), softened
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry filling. Do not spread it completely.
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the entire surface, covering the filling and cream cheese.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
Gently tap the dish on the counter to help the butter soak in. Do not stir.
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Serve warm or chilled, plain or with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Tips
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing.
Do not mix the layers after assembling. The magic happens as it bakes.
Drizzle butter slowly to cover most of the cake mix.
If dry spots remain, lightly spray them with cooking spray.
Use a glass baking dish for even heat distribution.
Let the cake rest before serving to help it set.
Warm servings are softer, chilled servings slice more cleanly.
Use parchment strips if you want easier cleanup.
Keep an eye on the top during the last 10 minutes.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Variations
Swap strawberry pie filling for cherry or blueberry.
Use chocolate cake mix for a richer flavor.
Add lemon zest to the cream cheese for brightness.
Mix mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer.
Use strawberry cheesecake flavored cake mix if available.
Add sliced fresh strawberries before baking.
Drizzle white chocolate over the top after baking.
Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a deeper note.
Add crushed graham crackers on top for cheesecake flavor.
Serve with strawberry sauce for extra indulgence.
Q&A
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because you dump the ingredients into the dish without mixing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days.
Do I have to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softened cream cheese blends smoothly and avoids lumps.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives better flavor, but margarine can work.
Why is my cake mix still powdery?
The butter may not have covered all areas. Spray lightly next time.
Can I use homemade pie filling?
Yes, as long as it is thick and well-cooked.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is rich but balanced by the tangy cream cheese.
Can I freeze dump cake?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What is the best way to reheat it?
Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use an 8×8 inch pan and reduce baking time slightly.
Nutrition
(Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 410
Protein: 4g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugar: 36g
Sodium: 380mg
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake proves that great desserts do not have to be complicated. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you get a warm, gooey, bakery-style dessert that everyone loves. It is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual family nights when you want something sweet without the mess. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become one of those dependable go-to desserts you keep coming back to again and again.