Q: What is a dump cake, exactly?

A dump cake is a type of dessert where all the ingredients are essentially “dumped” into a baking dish—no mixing, no layering, no fuss. You typically start with a fruit filling, add other key ingredients (like cream cheese or butter), then top it all with dry cake mix and bake. It’s the definition of effortless baking.

Q: Do I have to use strawberry pie filling, or can I use fresh strawberries?

Strawberry pie filling is best for texture and sweetness balance. However, you can make your own by simmering fresh or frozen strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. Just be sure it thickens properly before using it as a base. Mixing fresh strawberries into the pie filling is a great way to add texture.

Q: Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with another flavor?

Yes! White cake mix gives it a lighter flavor, while butter pecan or even chocolate cake mix adds a deeper, richer taste. For a true twist, try spiced cake mix—it pairs surprisingly well with the creamy and fruity layers.

Q: How should I store leftovers?

Let the dump cake cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – 5-Minute Prep, Irresistible Flavor

Ingredients

Scale

1 box yellow cake mix
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, cut into cubes
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional: fresh strawberries, white chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread pie filling evenly in the dish.
Dot with cubes of cream cheese.
Sprinkle dry cake mix over everything.
Drizzle melted butter across the top.
Add optional toppings like fresh strawberries or white chocolate.
Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Add crushed graham crackers or cinnamon muffin crumbs for extra texture.
Best served warm with vanilla ice cream, but equally delicious chilled.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

Author: Hailee Nova
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American Diet

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 285 kcal
Sugar: 23g
Sodium: 260mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: strawberry dump cake, easy cheesecake dessert, dump cake recipe