Introduction
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an effortless, oven-baked dessert that combines the sweet tang of strawberries with creamy cheesecake flavor and a buttery cake topping. True to its name, everything is simply “dumped” into the pan—no mixing bowls required—making it perfect for busy days or last-minute desserts.
Origin
Dump cakes originated in the United States in the mid-to-late 20th century, gaining popularity through community cookbooks and home economics recipes. They became beloved for their simplicity, using pantry staples like canned fruit and boxed cake mix. The cheesecake variation adds a rich, modern twist.
Cultural Significance
This dessert is a favorite at potlucks, church gatherings, family dinners, and holidays. It represents classic American comfort baking—minimal effort with maximum reward—and showcases the creative use of convenience ingredients in home cooking.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 8–10)
- Strawberry pie filling: 1 can (21 oz / 595 g)
- Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz (225 g)
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (50 g)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Yellow or vanilla cake mix: 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g)
- Unsalted butter (thinly sliced): ½ cup (115 g)
Optional Additions
- Fresh strawberries (½ cup, sliced)
- White chocolate chips
- Crushed graham crackers (for cheesecake crust flavor)
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Tips for Success
- Spread cream cheese evenly to avoid large dense pockets.
- Do not mix the layers—layering creates the signature texture.
- Slice butter very thin to ensure even melting.
- Let the cake rest 10–15 minutes before serving to set.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fruit Layer:
- Spread strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom.
- Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls over the strawberry layer.
- Cake Layer:
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top.
- Butter Topping:
- Arrange butter slices evenly across the cake mix.
- Bake:
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
- Cool Slightly:
- Let rest before serving.
Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is gooey, creamy, and buttery, with juicy strawberries at the base, pockets of tangy cheesecake, and a golden cake topping that melts into a rich crust.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 360–400 kcal
- Fat: 18–22 g
- Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
- Protein: 4–6 g
- Sugar: 28–32 g
Conclusion
This dessert proves that great flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is comforting, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Recommendation
Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for casual dinners, celebrations, or weekend treats.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter approach, use reduced-fat cream cheese, less sugar, and smaller portions—pairing with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness while still enjoying the indulgence.