Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow or white cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz / 430 g); 1 can strawberry pie filling (21 oz / ~595 g); 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz / 225 g); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick / 115 g); Optional: sliced fresh strawberries, white chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers

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This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate “lazy baker’s” dream — a creamy, fruity, buttery dessert that looks impressive but takes almost no effort. I simply layer strawberry pie filling, a sweet cream cheese mixture, dry cake mix, and melted butter, then let the oven work its magic. The result is a golden, crisp-topped treat with a luscious cheesecake-like center and jammy strawberry base.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe gives me maximum indulgence with minimum fuss. There’s no mixer needed beyond blending the cream cheese layer, no crust to roll out, and no complicated steps to follow. I can easily switch up the flavors, make it for last-minute guests, or prepare it ahead for a party. Plus, whether I serve it warm and gooey or chilled and firm, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Yellow or white cake mix – 1 box (approx. 15.25 oz / 430 g)
Strawberry pie filling – 1 can (21 oz / ~595 g)
Cream cheese (softened) – 1 package (8 oz / 225 g)
Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100 g)
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Unsalted butter (melted) – ½ cup (1 stick / 115 g)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the dish.
In a medium bowl, I beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. I dollop and gently spread this mixture over the strawberry layer without fully mixing them.
I sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top, leaving it as a dry layer.
I pour the melted butter over the cake mix, trying to cover as much surface as possible.
I bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden, slightly crisp, and bubbling at the edges.
I let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving warm or refrigerating for a firmer texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 10–12 people.
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Bake time: 40–45 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes (optional)
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

I sometimes add sliced fresh strawberries on top before baking for extra freshness.
Chocolate cake mix works beautifully for a chocolate-covered strawberry vibe.
Sprinkling white chocolate chips before baking adds a creamy sweetness.
A crushed graham cracker topping gives it classic cheesecake crunch.
Serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into the ultimate indulgence.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I can also freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, I use the microwave for a quick warm-up, but I also enjoy it cold for a firmer texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?

I look for a golden-brown top and bubbling fruit along the edges. If the center still looks too wet, I bake it for a few extra minutes.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Yes, but I recommend macerating them with sugar and cornstarch first to create a syrupy texture similar to pie filling.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often bake it the day before, refrigerate it, and serve it chilled or slightly reheated.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I use other pie fillings?

Yes, I’ve tried blueberry, cherry, and apple pie filling, and they all work wonderfully.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is proof that simple recipes can deliver incredible results. I love how it’s adaptable, quick to prepare, and always met with smiles. With its layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping, it’s the kind of dessert I can rely on for any occasion — and it never disappoints.