Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – The Easy Dessert That Feels Like a Hug

I have to confess — I’m a little in love with this recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that looks like you fussed over it for hours… but secretly, it’s all about effortless magic. The first time I made it, I was hosting last-minute company, and I needed something sweet that didn’t require measuring out 14 ingredients or dirtying every dish in the kitchen. This beauty came to the rescue, and let’s just say… there were no leftovers.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake delivers all the joy of creamy cheesecake and buttery cake, swirled together with juicy strawberries, in under an hour. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a Tuesday when you need something cozy and indulgent.

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What Exactly Is a Dump Cake?

Think of it as dessert’s low-maintenance superstar. A dump cake gets its name because, well… you literally “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish. No fancy mixing, no delicate folding. The layers magically transform in the oven into something gooey, golden, and absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fuss-free – Just layer and bake.
Flavor-packed – Tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake in every bite.
Perfect for a crowd – Serves 12 easily.
Versatile – Swap out the fruit filling for any flavor you love.

Taste & Texture

This is comfort dessert at its finest:

Creamy cheesecake pockets that melt in your mouth.
Juicy bursts of strawberry pie filling.
Golden & buttery cake crumble on top.
Every bite has that “just one more spoonful” pull.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 box yellow cake mix – Gives structure and sweetness.
1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling – The fruity heart of the dessert.
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened – For that cheesecake richness.
½ cup sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
½ cup butter, sliced into thin pats – Creates a crisp, golden top.

Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking dish
Hand mixer (or whisk) for the cream cheese layer
Spatula for spreading layers
Measuring cups & spoons

Possible Variations & Substitutions

Different fruits: Blueberry, cherry, or peach pie filling all work beautifully.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
Citrus twist: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.
Nutty finish: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking.