Sweet Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe

Strawberry cheesecake meets effortless baking in this irresistible dump cake that combines creamy, sweet, and buttery elements in every bite. This dessert transforms simple pantry ingredients into a delightful treat that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The contrast between the smooth cream cheese, fruity strawberry filling, and crispy cake topping creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

I've made this countless times for last-minute dinner guests, and it never fails to impress. Last summer, I brought it to a family reunion, and even my aunt, who's a professional baker, asked for the recipe. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity.

Essential Ingredients

• For the Base:
• 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling: Choose quality brand with whole strawberry pieces visible
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese: Full-fat works best for rich, creamy texture
• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix: French vanilla or white cake mix also perfect choices
• 1/2 cup butter: Salted butter adds depth to the sweet flavors
• For Serving (Optional):
• Vanilla ice cream: Premium vanilla bean enhances the warm cake
• Whipped cream: Fresh whipped cream adds luxurious finish
• Fresh strawberries: For garnish and extra fresh flavor

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Space

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Take a 9x13 baking dish and give it a thorough coating of non-stick spray or butter. Ensure your cream cheese is unwrapped and ready for slicing.

Step 2: Create the Butter Mixture

Place your stick of butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until completely melted. Pour in the entire box of cake mix and stir until it resembles wet sand. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when squeezed.

Step 3: Layer Your Base

Pour both cans of strawberry pie filling into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure to reach all corners. This creates your flavorful foundation.

Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Layer

Slice your cream cheese block into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully arrange these slices over the strawberry layer, trying to cover as much surface area as possible.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle your cake mix and butter mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Ensure complete coverage for that perfect golden crust. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.

Pin it

Having experimented with various dump cake recipes, I've found cream cheese makes all the difference. My go-to trick is slicing it while it's still cold from the fridge - it's much easier to handle and creates perfect portions.

Storage and Serving Tips

Because of the cream cheese component, this cake needs proper storage attention. Always let it cool completely before covering - about 1-2 hours. I've found that using an airtight container with a secure lid works better than plastic wrap, as it prevents the topping from sticking.

Make-Ahead Magic

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its make-ahead potential. I often prepare it the day before a gathering, store it in the refrigerator, and then let it come to room temperature before serving. The flavors actually develop more complexity overnight.

Freezer-Friendly Benefits

During busy holiday seasons, I make several of these cakes and freeze them. They maintain their quality remarkably well for up to three months when properly wrapped. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Temperature Matters

While this cake is delicious at any temperature, I've discovered that slightly warm (but not hot) brings out the best texture contrast between the creamy filling and buttery topping. About 10-15 minutes at room temperature after refrigeration is perfect.

Pin it

After countless times making this dump cake, I've come to appreciate its reliability and crowd-pleasing nature. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe promises satisfaction with minimal effort. The combination of tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake topping creates a dessert that tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?

Yes! Cherry, blueberry or peach pie filling work great in this recipe. Just swap out the strawberry filling with your preferred flavor.

→ Why can't I use yellow cake mix?

Yellow cake mix will give the topping a yellowish color. For best looks, stick with vanilla or French vanilla cake mix for a white topping.

→ Can this dump cake be made ahead?

Yes, you can make it 1-2 days ahead. Store covered in the fridge and rewarm slightly before serving.

→ Do I need to mix the cream cheese with anything?

No, just slice the cream cheese and layer the pieces on top of the strawberry filling. It will melt and combine while baking.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

The dump cake is done when the strawberry filling is bubbling and the top turns light golden brown, about 30 minutes.