
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that proves simple recipes can still feel wonderfully special. It has sweet strawberry filling, soft pockets of cream cheese, a buttery cake mix topping, and that warm, bubbling-from-the-edges look that makes everyone want a spoonful before it has even cooled.
This is a dessert made for easy joy. It does not ask for complicated layers, delicate decorating, or advanced baking skills, yet it still brings the flavor of strawberry cheesecake and cake together in one cozy baking dish.
There is something nostalgic about pulling a 9×13-inch dessert from the oven when the fruit filling is bubbling around the sides. The smell of strawberries, butter, and warm cake mix makes the kitchen feel instantly inviting.
This cake is especially lovely for summer barbecues, family gatherings, casual weekends, potlucks, or anytime you need a dessert that comes together quickly. With only a handful of ingredients, it is the kind of recipe you can make when you want something sweet without spending the whole afternoon baking.
The strawberry pie filling forms the fruity base. It spreads across the bottom of the dish and becomes warm, glossy, and spoonable as it bakes.
The cream cheese mixture adds the cheesecake part of the dessert. Softened cream cheese and powdered sugar are beaten until creamy, then dropped in little dollops over the strawberries so every serving has rich, tangy bites.
The strawberry cake mix goes on dry, right over the cream cheese layer. Melted butter is drizzled across the top, helping the cake mix bake into a golden, slightly crisp topping.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is warm, sweet, creamy, and easy to serve. Add whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries, and you have a dessert that feels generous, playful, and made for sharing.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Recipe Details
- Ingredients
- For the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Optional Serving Ideas
- Optional Variations and Add-Ins
- Ingredient Notes
- Optional Swaps, Variations, Add-Ins, and Serving Ideas
- Classic Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Fresh Strawberry Topped Cake
- Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Vanilla Cream Cheese Filling
- Chopped Nut Crunch
- Gluten-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
- Lighter Cream Cheese Version
- Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Version
- Greek Yogurt Substitute
- Whipped Cream Serving
- Vanilla Ice Cream Serving
- Summer Barbecue Dessert
- Family Gathering Dessert
- Why This Recipe Works
- Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Step 3: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling
- Step 4: Soften the Cream Cheese
- Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese and Powdered Sugar
- Step 6: Dollop the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Step 7: Add the Dry Cake Mix
- Step 8: Melt the Butter
- Step 9: Drizzle Butter Over the Cake Mix
- Step 10: Check the Layers Before Baking
- Step 11: Bake the Cake
- Step 12: Watch the Edges
- Step 13: Cool for a Few Minutes
- Step 14: Serve Warm
- Step 15: Add Toppings
- Step 16: Store Leftovers
- Step 17: Freeze for Longer Storage
- Step 18: Reheat Before Serving
- Serving Ideas
- Storage
- Freezing
- Make-Ahead
- Helpful Notes for Best Results
- Variations
- Classic Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Lemon Strawberry Dump Cake
- Gluten-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
- Lighter Strawberry Dump Cake
- Dairy-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
- Greek Yogurt Strawberry Dump Cake
- Vanilla Cheesecake Filling
- Nutty Strawberry Dump Cake
- Fresh Strawberry Topped Dump Cake
- Whipped Cream Strawberry Dump Cake
- Vanilla Ice Cream Strawberry Dump Cake
- Troubleshooting
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
- What can I substitute for cream cheese?
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Can I use a different pie filling?
- Do I mix the cake mix into the filling?
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- Can I add vanilla extract?
- What should I serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
- Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Final Thoughts
- Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This dessert has a quick prep time of just 10 minutes. It is perfect when you need something sweet without much planning.
It uses minimal ingredients. Strawberry cake mix, strawberry pie filling, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and melted butter are all you need for the main recipe.
It is budget-friendly and accessible. The ingredients are simple, easy to find, and easy to keep on hand.
It is perfect for family gatherings and summer barbecues. A 9×13-inch baking dish makes it easy to serve a group.
It has a rich and creamy texture with sweet strawberry flavor. The cream cheese mixture creates soft cheesecake-like pockets inside the cake.
No special baking skills are required. Anyone can layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy a warm dessert.
Recipe Details
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake bakes at 350°F (175°C). The recipe uses a 9×13-inch baking dish.
The prep time is just 10 minutes. The baking time is about 30 minutes.
The fruit layer uses 1 can strawberry pie filling, 21 oz. It is spread evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
The cheesecake layer uses 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup powdered sugar. These are beaten together until smooth and creamy.
The cream cheese mixture is dropped by spoonfuls over the strawberry pie filling. The dollops should be scattered so every bite has creamy flavor.
The cake layer uses 1 box strawberry cake mix. The dry cake mix is poured evenly over the cream cheese layer.
The topping uses ½ cup melted butter. It is drizzled over the cake mix, covering as much of the dry mix as possible.
The cake bakes for about 30 minutes. It is ready when the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling bubbles around the edges.
The cake should cool for a few minutes before serving. It is best served warm.
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, and fresh strawberries all make lovely serving options. The cake can also be enjoyed on its own.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated in the oven until warmed through.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 1 can strawberry pie filling, 21 oz
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
Optional Serving Ideas
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
Optional Variations and Add-Ins
- Blueberry pie filling
- Cherry pie filling
- Lemon zest
- Gluten-free cake mix
- Low-fat cream cheese
- Sugar substitute
- Dairy-free cream cheese alternative
- Greek yogurt
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped nuts
Ingredient Notes
Strawberry cake mix creates the sweet cake topping. Any brand works, and it gives the dessert an easy strawberry flavor.
Strawberry pie filling forms the fruit base. A 21 oz can gives the baking dish a sweet, glossy layer that bubbles as it bakes.
Cream cheese creates the creamy cheesecake-style pockets. It should be softened so it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar.
Full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture. Low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter version.
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese mixture. It blends smoothly and keeps the cheesecake layer soft.
If powdered sugar is not available, regular granulated sugar can work in a pinch. It should be mixed longer so it dissolves as much as possible.
Melted butter helps the dry cake mix bake into a golden topping. Unsalted butter is best if you want more control over the overall saltiness.
Fresh strawberries can be added on top before serving. They bring extra freshness and a pretty finish.
Whipped cream makes the warm cake feel softer and more dessert-like. Vanilla ice cream creates a classic warm-and-cold pairing.
Optional Swaps, Variations, Add-Ins, and Serving Ideas
Classic Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use strawberry pie filling, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, strawberry cake mix, and melted butter as written. This gives the dessert its sweet strawberry flavor and creamy cheesecake pockets.
Serve it warm after cooling for a few minutes. The top should be golden, and the edges should be bubbling.
Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Swap the strawberry pie filling for blueberry pie filling. This creates a different fruity twist.
The cream cheese mixture still gives the dessert a cheesecake-style flavor. Serve warm with whipped cream if desired.
Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use cherry pie filling instead of strawberry. This gives the cake a deeper fruit flavor.
Cherry and cream cheese pair beautifully together. Keep the same cake mix layering method.
Fresh Strawberry Topped Cake
Add fresh sliced strawberries on top before serving. This gives the dessert extra freshness.
The fresh berries make each serving look brighter. Add them after baking so they stay fresh.
Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. This gives the dessert a refreshing zing.
Lemon brightens the strawberry flavor. Use a light amount so the cheesecake layer stays balanced.
Vanilla Cream Cheese Filling
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. This gives the filling extra flavor.
Vanilla works well with strawberries, cake, and cream cheese. It makes the filling taste warmer and smoother.
Chopped Nut Crunch
Fold in or sprinkle chopped nuts for added crunch. They bring texture to the soft, creamy dessert.
Use a light hand so the strawberry and cream cheese flavors still stand out. This is a simple way to add contrast.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. This makes the dessert easier to serve for gluten-free needs.
The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free as written. Still, check labels to make sure everything fits your needs.
Lighter Cream Cheese Version
Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. The texture may be slightly different.
A sugar substitute can also be used if desired. Adjust sweetness based on your taste preference.
Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Version
Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This changes the texture and flavor, but it gives a dairy-free direction.
Choose one that blends smoothly with sugar. Beat it well before dolloping over the pie filling.
Greek Yogurt Substitute
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese. The flavor will be slightly different.
It can still create a creamy layer. Keep in mind that the texture may not be the same as cream cheese.
Whipped Cream Serving
Serve warm cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The cool cream melts slightly into the warm strawberry filling.
This is an easy topping for parties and family dinners. It makes each serving feel softer and richer.
Vanilla Ice Cream Serving
Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The ice cream melts into the strawberry and cream cheese pockets.
This is a classic pairing. It turns a simple dump cake into a cozy plated dessert.
Summer Barbecue Dessert
Bring this cake to a summer barbecue. It is easy to serve from the baking dish and tastes like a sweet strawberry celebration.
The warm fruit filling and golden topping make it crowd-friendly. Fresh strawberries on the side make it feel even more seasonal.
Family Gathering Dessert
Serve this cake at a family gathering. It is simple, familiar, and easy for guests to scoop.
Because it uses a 9×13-inch dish, it works well when feeding several people. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake works because the layers each bring something different. The strawberry filling gives sweetness, the cream cheese adds tangy richness, and the cake mix topping bakes into buttery comfort.
The pie filling on the bottom becomes warm and bubbly in the oven. It creates the fruity base of the dessert.
The cream cheese and powdered sugar mixture creates creamy pockets. Dropping it by spoonfuls helps spread that cheesecake flavor throughout the cake.
The dry cake mix saves time. It also forms the topping without needing a separate batter.
Melted butter is important because it helps the cake mix bake properly. Drizzling it over as much of the dry mix as possible creates a more golden top.
The dessert does not need perfect spreading. A little texture on top gives it character.
Cooling for a few minutes before serving helps the filling settle. The cake stays warm while becoming easier to scoop.
The recipe also works because it can be customized. Different fruit fillings, lemon zest, vanilla, nuts, gluten-free cake mix, and lighter or dairy-free cream cheese options can all fit the same easy method.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the oven come fully to temperature before baking.
This temperature helps the topping turn golden while the strawberry filling warms and bubbles. A steady oven is important for even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Set out a 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it is clean and ready for layering.
This size gives the dessert room to spread evenly. It also makes the cake easy to serve for gatherings.
Step 3: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling
Open 1 can of strawberry pie filling, 21 oz. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Cover every area of the dish as much as possible. This gives each scoop a sweet strawberry base.
Step 4: Soften the Cream Cheese
Use 8 oz cream cheese that has been softened. Softened cream cheese is easier to mix into a smooth filling.
If the cream cheese is too firm, the mixture may stay lumpy. Let it soften before beating.
Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese and Powdered Sugar
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ½ cup powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or sturdy whisk to beat until smooth and creamy.
At first, the mixture may look slightly lumpy. Keep mixing until it becomes velvety.
Step 6: Dollop the Cream Cheese Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Scatter the dollops across the dish.
Try to place little pockets throughout the pan. This helps every serving get some creamy cheesecake flavor.
Step 7: Add the Dry Cake Mix
Pour 1 box strawberry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Spread it gently so it covers the dish.
Do not worry about making the top perfectly smooth. A little texture gives the finished cake character.
Step 8: Melt the Butter
Melt ½ cup butter. Unsalted butter is a good choice for controlling the overall saltiness.
The butter should be fully melted so it can drizzle over the cake mix. This helps create the golden topping.
Step 9: Drizzle Butter Over the Cake Mix
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
The butter is what helps the top bake into a crisp, delicious layer. Move slowly so it reaches different areas of the dish.
Step 10: Check the Layers Before Baking
Look over the dish before placing it in the oven. The strawberry filling should be on the bottom, the cream cheese dollops in the middle, the dry cake mix on top, and melted butter across the surface.
Do not stir the layers together. The dessert bakes best when the layers remain in place.
Step 11: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes.
The cake is ready when the top is golden brown. The filling should be bubbling around the edges.
Step 12: Watch the Edges
Check the edges near the end of baking. Bubbling filling is a good sign that the dessert is hot and ready.
The top should look golden and baked. Avoid removing it too early while the cake mix still looks dry.
Step 13: Cool for a Few Minutes
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the cake cool for a few minutes. The filling will be very hot.
A short cooling time lets the dessert settle. It will still be warm and inviting when served.
Step 14: Serve Warm
Spoon the warm Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake into bowls or onto dessert plates. Try to scoop through all the layers.
Each serving should have strawberry filling, cream cheese pockets, and buttery cake topping. Serve while warm for the best flavor.
Step 15: Add Toppings
Top servings with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired. Fresh strawberries on the side are also lovely.
The cool topping contrasts beautifully with the warm cake. This makes the dessert feel extra special.
Step 16: Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days.
Let the cake cool before storing. Cover it well to protect the texture.
Step 17: Freeze for Longer Storage
This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container.
Freeze only after the cake has cooled. This helps preserve the dessert for later.
Step 18: Reheat Before Serving
When ready to enjoy frozen or chilled leftovers, reheat in the oven until warmed through. This helps bring back the cozy baked texture.
Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries. The dessert tastes best when the filling is soft and warm again.

Serving Ideas
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is best served warm. The fruit filling is soft and bubbly, the cream cheese pockets are rich, and the topping tastes buttery and sweet.
A generous dollop of whipped cream makes each serving feel soft and creamy. It melts slightly over the warm cake and adds a classic dessert finish.
Vanilla ice cream is another perfect pairing. The cold ice cream melts into the warm strawberry filling and creates a sweet, creamy contrast.
Fresh strawberries on the side make the dessert taste brighter. They also make the plate look prettier.
This cake is wonderful for summer barbecues. It is easy to bake, easy to carry, and easy to serve from the dish.
It also works for family gatherings. A spoonable dessert in a 9×13-inch pan feels relaxed and welcoming.
You can serve it after dinner or as a sweet treat for a casual afternoon. It does not need fancy decoration to feel complete.
If you want to make it look extra inviting, add fresh sliced strawberries right before serving. The fresh fruit gives the warm cake a beautiful finish.
Storage
Store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
Let the cake cool before storing it. This helps prevent too much moisture from collecting inside the container.
If you keep it in the baking dish, cover it tightly. A lid, plastic wrap, or foil can help protect it.
The topping may soften slightly after refrigeration. That is normal for a fruit-filled dump cake.
Reheat leftovers before serving for the best flavor. The dessert tastes especially good when warm again.
Use clean utensils when scooping leftovers. This helps keep the stored cake fresh.
Freezing
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then place it in an airtight container for extra protection.
You can freeze the whole remaining portion or individual servings. Individual portions make reheating easier.
When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until warmed through. This brings the dessert back to a cozy texture.
Freezing makes this dessert helpful for make-ahead planning. It is a nice option when you want a quick sweet treat ready later.
Make-Ahead
This dump cake can be made ahead because it stores and freezes well. Bake it, cool it, and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
For longer planning, freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container.
Reheat the cake in the oven until warmed through before serving. Warm cake has the best texture and flavor.
If serving for a gathering, you can bake it earlier and warm it before dessert. Add whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh strawberries when serving.
The simple ingredient list makes it a dependable last-minute dessert too. With only 10 minutes of prep, it can be assembled quickly whenever needed.
Helpful Notes for Best Results
Use softened cream cheese. It mixes more smoothly with powdered sugar and creates better cheesecake pockets.
Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy. Keep mixing if it looks lumpy at first.
Do not stir the layers once the cake is assembled. The strawberry filling, cream cheese, cake mix, and butter bake into their own textures.
Try to drizzle the butter over as much of the dry cake mix as possible. This helps the top bake more evenly.
If you do not have powdered sugar, granulated sugar can work in a pinch. Mix longer to help it dissolve.
Add vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor. One teaspoon is a simple way to deepen the filling.
Fresh sliced strawberries make a pretty serving garnish. Add them after baking.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Taste preferences can vary.
Variations
Classic Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use strawberry pie filling, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, strawberry cake mix, and melted butter. This gives the dessert its main sweet, creamy, strawberry flavor.
Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It is simple, cozy, and crowd-friendly.
Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Swap the strawberry pie filling for blueberry pie filling. This gives the dessert a different fruity flavor.
The cream cheese mixture still adds cheesecake richness. Serve warm for the best texture.
Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Use cherry pie filling instead of strawberry. Cherry gives the dessert a rich fruit flavor.
This variation still works with the strawberry cake mix method. Add whipped cream if desired.
Lemon Strawberry Dump Cake
Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. This brings a refreshing zing.
Lemon brightens the strawberry flavor. Use a light amount so the dessert stays balanced.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
Use a gluten-free cake mix. This makes the dessert suitable for gluten-free serving.
The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free as written. Still, check labels to be safe.
Lighter Strawberry Dump Cake
Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. A sugar substitute can also be used.
The texture may be slightly different. The dessert will still have strawberry flavor and a creamy layer.
Dairy-Free Strawberry Dump Cake
Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This gives the dessert a dairy-free direction.
The flavor and texture may vary depending on the product. Beat it well with the sweetener before dolloping.
Greek Yogurt Strawberry Dump Cake
Use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. The flavor will be slightly different.
It will bring a creamy tang to the dessert. Keep in mind that the texture may be less rich than cream cheese.
Vanilla Cheesecake Filling
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. This gives the filling extra warmth.
Vanilla pairs beautifully with strawberry, cake, and butter. It is a simple flavor boost.
Nutty Strawberry Dump Cake
Fold in chopped nuts or sprinkle them over the top for crunch. They add texture to the soft cake.
Use chopped nuts lightly so they do not overpower the strawberry flavor. They make the dessert more textured.
Fresh Strawberry Topped Dump Cake
Add fresh sliced strawberries on top before serving. This makes the dessert look brighter.
Fresh berries also add a fresh contrast to the warm baked filling. Serve them on the side if preferred.
Whipped Cream Strawberry Dump Cake
Serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The whipped cream softens the warm cake.
This is an easy topping for summer barbecues and family dinners. It makes every scoop feel more special.
Vanilla Ice Cream Strawberry Dump Cake
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream. The ice cream melts into the strawberry filling and cream cheese pockets.
This is one of the best ways to enjoy the dessert. It creates a warm, cold, creamy contrast.
Troubleshooting
The Cream Cheese Mixture Is Lumpy
The cream cheese may not have been soft enough. Let it soften before mixing with powdered sugar.
Keep beating until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. A hand mixer can make this easier.
The Cake Mix Still Looks Dry
The melted butter may not have covered enough of the dry cake mix. Try to drizzle butter across as much of the surface as possible.
Some texture is fine, but large dry patches should be avoided. Move slowly when adding the butter.
The Filling Is Too Runny
The cake may need the full baking time. Bake until the top is golden and the filling bubbles around the edges.
Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Cooling helps the filling settle.
The Top Is Not Golden
The cake may need a little more time. Bake for about 30 minutes and look for a golden brown top.
The filling should bubble at the edges. That is another sign the cake is ready.
The Cake Tastes Too Sweet
Use a strawberry pie filling that is not too sweet for a more balanced taste. You can also adjust the powdered sugar in the cream cheese layer.
Serve with fresh strawberries to add brightness. A smaller serving can also help balance the sweetness.
The Cream Cheese Pockets Are Uneven
The dollops may not have been spread across the dish. Drop spoonfuls in different areas over the strawberry filling.
This helps every serving get cheesecake flavor. The dollops do not need to be perfect.
The Butter Pooled in One Area
The butter may have been poured too quickly. Drizzle it slowly across the top.
Try to cover the cake mix evenly. This helps the topping bake better.
The Cake Is Hard to Scoop
It may need a few minutes to cool. Fresh from the oven, the filling can be very hot and loose.
Let it rest briefly. Then scoop through all the layers.
The Leftovers Lost Some Texture
Refrigeration can soften the topping. This is normal for a fruit-filled dump cake.
Reheat in the oven until warmed through. This helps the dessert taste closer to freshly baked.
The Frozen Cake Needs Serving
Thaw or reheat the frozen cake in the oven until warmed through. Make sure it is heated before serving.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. Warm toppings make leftovers feel fresh again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Yes, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese. A dairy-free cream cheese alternative can also be used.
The flavor will be slightly different, but the dessert will still be delicious. Choose the option that best fits your needs.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix instead of regular cake mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free as written.
Check labels if needed. This makes the dessert easier to share with gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I use a different pie filling?
Yes, blueberry or cherry pie filling can be used instead of strawberry. This gives the dump cake a different fruit flavor.
The method stays the same. Spread the pie filling on the bottom before adding the cream cheese mixture and cake mix.
Do I mix the cake mix into the filling?
No, do not mix the cake mix into the filling. Pour the dry cake mix over the cream cheese layer.
The melted butter goes over the dry cake mix. The layers bake together in the oven.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The texture and flavor may vary.
Choose a substitute that can mix smoothly with sugar. Continue with the same layering method.
Can I add vanilla extract?
Yes, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract can be added to the cream cheese mixture. It gives the filling extra flavor.
Mix it in with the cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth.
What should I serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Fresh strawberries on the side are also delicious.
It is especially good for summer barbecues and family gatherings. Serve while warm for the best flavor.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake works so well because it gives you the flavor of strawberry cheesecake with the ease of a dump cake. The ingredients are simple, but the layers create a dessert that feels rich and satisfying.
The strawberry pie filling creates the fruity bottom layer. It becomes warm and bubbly as the cake bakes.
The cream cheese and powdered sugar mixture adds the cheesecake element. Soft dollops melt into creamy pockets throughout the dessert.
The dry strawberry cake mix forms the topping. It saves time and gives the dessert more strawberry flavor.
Melted butter turns the dry mix into a golden topping. It adds richness and helps create that slightly crisp top.
Baking at 350°F gives the layers time to heat, bubble, and set. The top becomes golden while the fruit filling warms underneath.
Cooling for a few minutes before serving helps the dessert settle. It keeps the cake warm but easier to scoop.
The recipe is flexible too. Blueberry filling, cherry filling, lemon zest, gluten-free cake mix, low-fat cream cheese, sugar substitute, dairy-free cream cheese, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, chopped nuts, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and vanilla ice cream all give the dessert different ways to fit the table.
Most of all, this cake works because it tastes like comfort with almost no fuss. It is fruity, creamy, buttery, warm, sweet, and made for sharing from the baking dish.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple baked dessert made with strawberry pie filling, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, dry strawberry cake mix, and melted butter. The filling is spread in a 9×13-inch baking dish, the cream cheese mixture is dolloped over the top, the cake mix is poured on dry, and the melted butter bakes everything into a warm, golden, bubbling dessert.
Serve it warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries for the best flavor. With its 10-minute prep time, minimal ingredients, creamy cheesecake pockets, sweet strawberry base, freezer-friendly storage, and no-special-skills-needed method, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy dessert that brings big comfort to any table.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Sweet, creamy, fruity, and wonderfully easy, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns strawberry pie filling, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, strawberry cake mix, and melted butter into a warm baked dessert with very little effort. The bottom bakes up bubbly and bright, while the top turns golden with rich cheesecake-style pockets tucked underneath.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- ½ cup butter melted
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 can strawberry pie filling 21 oz
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let it preheat while you begin layering the dessert.
Step 2: Start with the Strawberry Layer
Spoon the strawberry pie filling into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it from corner to corner so the fruit layer sits evenly under the rest of the cake.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
Place the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl. Beat them together until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and easy to spoon.
Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Pockets
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. The dollops do not need to cover the fruit completely, because they will bake into soft cheesecake-style pockets.
Step 5: Cover with Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Try to cover the surface as evenly as possible without stirring the layers together.
Step 6: Finish with Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Cover as much of the surface as possible so the topping can bake into a golden finish.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbly. Let the dessert rest briefly before serving so the hot fruit layer can settle slightly.
Notes
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm, while the strawberry filling is bubbly and the cake mix topping is golden. The creamy pockets of sweetened cream cheese give the dessert a cheesecake-like richness without needing a separate crust or long preparation.
For a more indulgent serving, add whipped cream or ice cream as noted. The warm strawberry filling and soft cream cheese layer pair well with a cool topping, making each spoonful feel extra rich.
This dessert works well for casual gatherings, quick family sweets, potlucks, or any time you want a low-effort strawberry dessert. Scoop it straight from the baking dish and serve in warm portions.
Storage
How to Store
The recipe does not provide specific storage instructions or storage duration, so no exact storage time is added here.
Layering Tip
Do not stir the layers together after adding the strawberry pie filling, cream cheese mixture, dry cake mix, and melted butter. Keeping the layers separate helps create the dump cake texture.
Cream Cheese Tip
Use softened cream cheese so it beats smoothly with the powdered sugar. Drop it over the strawberry layer in spoonfuls instead of spreading it into one flat layer.
Butter Tip
Drizzle the melted butter over as much of the dry cake mix as possible. This helps the topping bake more evenly and turn golden.
Baking Tip
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serving Tip
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence. No exact quantity is provided for either topping, so keep them flexible.

Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.