Tired of complicated desserts that take hours to make but still don’t wow your guests? Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the answer to your dessert dilemmas! This heavenly treat combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet tartness of strawberries in a dessert that practically makes itself.
Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake has become my go-to when I need something spectacular with minimal effort. After years of testing various dump cake recipes, I’ve perfected this version that consistently brings smiles to my family’s faces. The magic happens when the cake mix absorbs the fruity juices below, creating distinct layers of flavor that meld together beautifully.
In this recipe guide, you’ll discover the secrets to selecting the perfect berries, simple ingredient prep tricks, foolproof baking instructions, and creative ways to serve this crowd-pleaser. Let’s transform a few simple ingredients into dessert magic!
Why This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe Works
- Uses just 5-6 ingredients that are pantry and freezer-friendly
- Takes only 10 minutes to assemble before baking
- Creates distinct layers of flavor without any complicated techniques
- Perfect for last-minute entertaining or satisfying sudden sweet cravings
- Versatile enough for casual family desserts or dressed-up dinner parties
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Best Strawberries for This Recipe
Fresh strawberries deliver bright flavor, but frozen strawberries work beautifully too—no thawing required! When using fresh, look for fully ripe, fragrant berries with deep red color. During off-season, high-quality frozen strawberries often provide more consistent sweetness.
Cake Mix Selection
While white or vanilla cake mix creates the classic cheesecake flavor profile, you can experiment with yellow cake mix for a more buttery finish. Look for brands without artificial flavors for the cleanest taste.
Cheesecake Components
The “cheesecake” magic comes from cream cheese and a few supporting ingredients. Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest flavor, though reduced-fat versions work in a pinch (but avoid fat-free options).
Ingredients & Prep for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Dump Cake Essentials
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries OR 2 bags (16 oz each) frozen strawberries
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
Quick Prep Steps
- Rinse and hull fresh strawberries, slicing larger ones in half
- Beat cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients
- Use room-temperature ingredients for best blending
- Line baking dish with parchment for easier serving and cleanup
Step-by-Step Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread strawberries evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries and gently spread (it’s okay if it’s not perfect—this is a dump cake after all!).
Baking Method for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, trying to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the fruit layer is bubbling at the edges.
Doneness Check for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
The cake is done when:
- Top is golden brown with no visible dry cake mix
- Edges are bubbly with fruit juices
- A toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter)
Cooling Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. The cheesecake layer will set slightly as it cools, making it easier to serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Avoiding Common Dump Cake Mistakes
- Dry patches? If you notice dry cake mix after baking, cover with foil and bake 5-10 minutes longer.
- Too soupy? If using particularly juicy strawberries, add 1 tablespoon cornstarch to the fruit layer.
- Even butter distribution: Use a pastry brush to spread melted butter to the edges of the dry cake mix.
Tool Recommendations
- Ceramic or glass baking dishes work better than metal for more even cooking
- Offset spatula for spreading cream cheese layer
- Butter knife for testing doneness in the center
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.
For more delightful dessert inspiration, check out my Pinterest board where I share new recipe ideas every week!
Flavor Variations for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Berry Bonanza
- Mixed Berry Bliss: Replace half the strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Strawberry Banana: Add 2 sliced bananas between the strawberry and cream cheese layers.
- Tropical Twist: Add 1 cup diced fresh pineapple and 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the fruit layer.
Sweet Additions
- Chocolate Lover’s: Sprinkle 1/2 cup chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds to the cake mix layer.
- Streusel Topping: Mix 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 2 tablespoons cold butter until crumbly; sprinkle over cake before baking.
| Variation | Fruit Layer | Special Addition | Bake Time Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Strawberries only | None | Standard (45-50 min) |
| Triple Berry | Equal parts strawberry, blueberry, raspberry | 1 tsp lemon zest | Add 5 minutes |
| Strawberry Rhubarb | 3 parts strawberry, 1 part rhubarb | 2 Tbsp extra sugar | No change |
| Chocolate Covered | Strawberries only | 1/2 cup chocolate chips | Reduce by 5 minutes |
Looking for more amazing cheesecake recipes? Try my Churro Cheesecake for another delicious dessert adventure!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a mint leaf for an elegant presentation
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or hot fudge for extra decadence
- Pair with a cup of coffee or chamomile tea for the perfect dessert experience
Need more dessert ideas that will impress? My Fudgy Chewy Brookies are another crowd-pleaser you’ll love!
FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Peaches, cherries, blueberries, and mixed berries all work beautifully. Adjust sugar levels based on the natural sweetness of your chosen fruit.
Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate unbaked. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Why is my cake mix still dry on top?
This usually happens when the butter isn’t evenly distributed. Make sure to drizzle the butter to cover as much of the cake mix as possible, or use slightly more butter if needed.
Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?
Yes, most granulated sugar substitutes work well in the cream cheese mixture. However, be aware that some may alter the final texture slightly.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake truly represents what we love most about home cooking at GusRecipes simple ingredients transformed into something magnificent without complicated techniques. The contrast between the tangy strawberries, creamy cheesecake layer, and buttery cake topping creates a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this forgiving, adaptable recipe deserves a place in your dessert rotation. The best part? You probably have most ingredients on hand already!
Grab your baking dish and give this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake a try tonight I promise it will become a family favorite! And if you make it, I’d love to see your creation. Join thousands of home bakers who’ve discovered the magic of this effortless dessert!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Easy Dessert Magic!
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
A quick and irresistible strawberry cheesecake dump cake made with rich cream cheese, sweet strawberry filling, and a buttery cake topping. Simple, cozy, and perfect for gatherings!
Ingredients
1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: fresh strawberries for topping
Optional: whipped cream
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.
3. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer.
5. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top—do not stir.
6. Pour the melted butter evenly across the cake mix.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
8. Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
9. Top with fresh strawberries or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Use strawberry-lemon or vanilla cake mix for a fun twist.
Swap the filling for blueberry, cherry, or raspberry.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a dessert everyone loves.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
Keywords: dump cake, strawberry cheesecake, easy dessert, cake mix dessert