Spring is finally here and your calendar is filling up with potlucks. You need a dessert that looks fancy but takes minimal effort to make. This strawberry cheesecake dump cake is your new secret weapon for every gathering.
It delivers creamy, fruity goodness in every single bite. You will love how the sweet berries pair with the tangy cheesecake layer. It is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that requires almost no cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it uses just six simple ingredients. It is perfect for busy spring weekends when you want a treat. The cream cheese layer adds a rich tang to the sweet berries.
Everyone will think you spent hours in the kitchen today. In reality, you just “dumped” it and baked it to perfection. This is truly a beginner-friendly dessert that never fails to impress.
Simple Method
Making this is as easy as layering your favorite ingredients. You start with the fruit and end with a golden buttery crust. There is no heavy lifting or fancy equipment needed here.
Even a total beginner can master this dessert on the first try. Just follow the layers and let the oven do the work. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly while it bakes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these are likely sitting in your pantry right now. Fresh ingredients meet easy staples for the perfect texture.
- 2 (21 oz) cans strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry filling.
- Distribute the dry cake mix uniformly over the top of the other layers.
- Arrange the butter slices on top of the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow the cake to cool for 20 minutes before serving to ensure the cheesecake layer sets.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold cream melting into the warm strawberry filling is pure heaven. It is a total hit at family gatherings or neighborhood block parties.
Set the table, gather your family, and enjoy this sweet spring treat together. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for extra fluffiness. It looks beautiful served in small glass bowls.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the dish covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. To enjoy it again, reheat a slice in the microwave for 30 seconds.
This makes it taste fresh-baked all over again the next day. You can even enjoy it cold straight from the refrigerator. The cheesecake layer becomes extra firm and creamy when chilled.
Tips for Best Results
- Use softened cream cheese so it blends easily and stays smooth.
- Don’t skip the step of slicing the butter thinly for even coverage.
- Avoid stirring the layers together to keep that distinct cheesecake texture.
- Check the cake at 40 minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
- Add a handful of fresh summer berries on top after baking for brightness.
- Make sure the cake mix covers the edges to prevent fruit from burning.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap yellow cake mix for white cake mix for a lighter flavor.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter to make it vegan-friendly.
- In the fall, try this with apple pie filling and spice cake mix.
- Add a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on top for extra crunch.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it the night before and chill it. It tastes wonderful both warm and cold for your guests.
How do I know when it is done?
Look for bubbling fruit at the edges and a deep golden brown top. The center should feel set but slightly soft to the touch.
Will kids eat this?
Absolutely, kids love the sweet strawberry flavor and the cake topping. It is a very picky-eater friendly dessert for the whole family.
I hope this creamy strawberry cheesecake dump cake brings joy to your table. It is the perfect way to celebrate the bright flavors of spring. Happy baking!
— Lidia

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Ingredients
- 2 (21 oz) cans strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry filling.
- Distribute the dry cake mix uniformly over the top of the other layers.
- Arrange the butter slices on top of the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow the cake to cool for 20 minutes before serving to ensure the cheesecake layer sets.
