Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple and indulgent dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of cream cheese and a buttery cake topping. With minimal ingredients and no fancy techniques, this recipe is perfect for when you want to whip up a delicious dessert in a hurry. It’s sweet, creamy, and topped with a golden crust that adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just need a quick treat, this dump cake is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the definition of comfort food. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The cream cheese layer gives the cake a rich, velvety texture, while the sweet, juicy strawberries add a burst of flavor. The cake topping bakes to a golden, crispy perfection, making each bite a wonderful contrast of creamy and crunchy. It’s perfect for those who want a quick and satisfying dessert that feels like it took hours to prepare—without the fuss!

Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Ingredients

1 (15.25 oz) box of yellow cake mix
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Layer the Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the filling, but it’s okay if it doesn’t cover completely.
Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Do not mix.
Add Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will help the cake topping bake to a golden, crisp texture.
Bake: Bake the dump cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Other Fruit Fillings: Swap the strawberry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry, peach, or cherry for a different flavor profile.
Add Nuts: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) over the top of the cake mix before baking.
Coconut Topping: Add a handful of shredded coconut to the top for a tropical twist.
Cream Cheese Swirl: For a more decorative touch, swirl the cream cheese mixture into the strawberry filling before adding the cake mix on top.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

While fresh strawberries can be used, strawberry pie filling provides the right consistency and sweetness for the dessert. If using fresh strawberries, you’ll need to cook them down with sugar to create a similar consistency.

2. Can I make this dump cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.

3. Can I make this dump cake with a different cake mix?

Yes! You can experiment with other cake mixes like white, chocolate, or even a spice cake mix for a different flavor. Each variation will offer a unique twist on this dessert.

4. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

To make this dump cake dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter in place of regular butter.

5. Can I freeze this dump cake?

Yes, this cake can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

6. Can I use a different type of fruit pie filling?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with different types of pie filling, such as blueberry, peach, or cherry. You can even mix and match fruit flavors for a fun combination.

7. Can I add whipped cream or ice cream to this dump cake?

Yes, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, gooey texture of this dump cake. It adds a creamy contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

8. How do I get the cake topping to be crispier?

For a crispier topping, ensure that you evenly distribute the melted butter over the dry cake mix and bake the cake until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

9. Can I use a different size baking dish?

If you use a smaller or larger baking dish, the baking time may need to be adjusted. A smaller dish will require a longer bake time, while a larger dish will cook more quickly. Just keep an eye on it as it bakes.

10. Can I add a layer of cream cheese frosting on top?

For an extra indulgent touch, you can make cream cheese frosting and spread it over the cooled dump cake for an added layer of sweetness and creaminess.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite fruit fillings and toppings, this dessert is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and decadent treat.