If you’re searching for a dessert that combines ease, comfort, and a burst of fruity sweetness, the Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious dump cake blends velvety cream cheese with vibrant strawberry pie filling, all topped with a golden, buttery crust that offers the perfect crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a celebratory gathering, and it comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things delightfully simple but never skimping on taste. Each component plays a crucial role: from the creamy tang of the cream cheese to the sweet strawberry filling, and the crisp topping that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Provides a light, tender crumb that bakes to a golden finish without any extra mixing needed.
- Strawberry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Brings juicy, natural sweetness and the signature strawberry flavor throughout the dessert.
- Cream cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened): Adds rich, smooth creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the fruity filling.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer just right, balancing the tartness of strawberries.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch that ties everything together.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Ensures the topping is perfectly moist and golden-brown with a luscious buttery depth.
- Crushed graham crackers (1½ cups): Add an irresistible crunch and hint of honey flavor to the crispy topping.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): A pinch to awaken and balance the sweetness and richness.
- Optional fresh strawberries and whipped cream: For a fresh, elegant touch when serving.
How to Make Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the dessert won’t stick and will come out easily after baking. Getting these basics right sets the foundation for success.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This juicy base infuses the dessert with bright, fruity flavor in every bite and keeps it delightfully moist throughout baking.
Step 3: Prepare and Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Use a spoon to dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer, gently spreading it out a little but not completely covering the filling. This layer adds luscious richness and a hint of tang to balance the sweetness.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Dry Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese dollops. Resist the urge to stir; this dry layer is essential for creating that iconic crumbly, tender topping once baked.
Step 5: Make and Add the Butter-Graham Cracker Topping
Combine the melted unsalted butter, crushed graham crackers, and salt in a small bowl, mixing until combined. Evenly sprinkle this deliciously crunchy topping over the dry cake mix. This final layer adds buttery crispness that perfectly contrasts with the creamy and fruity layers beneath.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the assembled dessert for 45 to 50 minutes. You want to see golden brown edges and bubbling filling underneath—a sign that everything is cooked through and melding together beautifully. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing so the layers set nicely.
How to Serve Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Top your dessert with a generous swirl of freshly whipped cream and a few sliced fresh strawberries for that added pop of freshness and visual appeal. The cream adds airy lightness, perfectly balancing the richness of the cheesecake layer.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this dessert with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of cold milk. These sides complement the warm, gooey cake and add contrasting temperature and textures to each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive touch, serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight in individual ramekins or mason jars layered with extra fresh berries and mint leaves. It makes a stunning presentation for parties and allows each guest to enjoy their own personalized parfait-style dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, during which the flavors continue to meld and get even more delicious.
Freezing
This strawberry cheesecake dump delight also freezes beautifully. Wrap leftovers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving cold.
Reheating
Warm up individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel. You can also heat it in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Add fresh whipped cream or strawberries after reheating to revive its charm.
FAQs
Can I use other fruit fillings besides strawberry?
Absolutely! Cherry or blueberry pie fillings make fantastic alternatives and provide a tasty twist. This recipe is versatile and welcomes your favorite fruit flavors.
Do I have to use graham crackers for the topping?
Graham crackers give a classic flavor and crunch, but crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits can be a creative replacement. Each will bring a subtle variation in flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese ensures it blends smoothly without lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
Can I prepare this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
With some swaps—like using dairy-free cream cheese, butter alternatives, and a vegan cake mix—you can adapt this recipe. However, the flavor and texture might differ slightly from the original.
How long does this dessert take to bake?
Baking typically takes 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it after 40 minutes to avoid over-baking and ensure the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight Recipe. It’s one of those magical desserts that tastes like a labor of love but comes together in under an hour. I encourage you to try it soon—whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat—and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Delight is a simple yet decadent dessert that combines the bright flavor of strawberry pie filling with creamy cheesecake and a buttery cake topping. Perfect for spring or any occasion, this easy dump cake recipe features layers of sweet strawberries, smooth cream cheese, and a golden crust made from yellow cake mix and graham crackers. Ready in just over an hour, it’s a delicious treat to serve with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Layer Strawberry Filling: Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a juicy base for the dessert.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This will add a rich, cheesecake layer.
- Add Cream Cheese Layer: Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it slightly, but do not blend it into the filling.
- Top with Dry Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer without mixing. This dry layer will bake into a crumbly, cake-like topping.
- Prepare and Add Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, crushed graham crackers, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake mix layer to add crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with filling.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. This lets the layers set for easier slicing and enhances the flavors.
- Optional Garnishes: Serve the cake topped with fresh strawberries and dollops of whipped cream for an extra festive and delicious touch.
Notes
- You can substitute strawberry pie filling with cherry or blueberry pie filling for delicious variations.
- For a richer dessert, sprinkle white chocolate chips over the top before baking.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Letting the cake cool before serving helps the layers hold together better.
- Use fresh strawberries and whipped cream to enhance presentation and flavor.
