Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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Every so often, a dessert recipe comes along that completely takes over your kitchen in the best way. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is exactly that. I made it on a whim one afternoon when I was craving something rich, fruity, and completely effortless. And oh, did it deliver. The juicy strawberries, creamy cheesecake layer, and that golden buttery cake topping came together like magic.

What makes this dump cake special is how low-effort it is while still tasting like a slice of heaven from your favorite bakery. I didn’t need to fuss over a crust or whip up layers of batter. Everything went straight into the baking dish, and the oven did the rest. The strawberries bubbled into a syrupy base, the cheesecake turned luscious and soft, and the cake mix formed a golden, slightly crisp top. I couldn’t stop sneaking bites while it was still warm.

It became an instant hit. My family practically devoured the entire thing in one sitting. The contrast of flavors and textures is what really stands out — sweet, creamy, tangy, and crumbly all at once. If you’re looking for a new favorite dessert that takes just minutes to throw together, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will definitely become your go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

This dessert checks all the right boxes: it’s easy, decadent, and bursting with fruity, creamy flavor. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or just craving something sweet on a weeknight, this dump cake fits the bill. The creamy cheesecake center brings a luxurious feel to every bite, while the strawberries brighten up the whole dish with fresh, tangy sweetness.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s foolproof. No special techniques or baking skills required. You literally just “dump” the ingredients into the pan and bake. And it works with both fresh or frozen strawberries. If you enjoy this, I highly recommend checking out my ooey gooey bars or mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes for more simple indulgent treats.

Ingredients

Strawberries: These are the star of the dish, providing a fresh, juicy burst of flavor. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries depending on what’s in season.

Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy layer that balances the sweetness of the cake and fruit. It melts slightly while baking, becoming wonderfully creamy.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture, enhancing its flavor and helping it blend smoothly.

Vanilla Extract: Brings out the sweetness in both the cheesecake and the strawberries, adding depth to the overall flavor.

Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base that forms the buttery, crumbly topping. It’s what makes the “dump” cake so easy and foolproof.

Butter: When melted and drizzled on top, it helps the cake mix turn into a golden, crispy topping. Salted or unsalted both work.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures nothing sticks and makes for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Add the Strawberries

Spread the strawberries evenly on the bottom of the dish. If you’re using frozen, no need to thaw first.

Step 3: Mix and Layer the Cream Cheese

Beat the cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberries. It doesn’t have to be perfectly even — some variety makes it better.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Pour the yellow cake mix evenly over the strawberries and cream cheese. Try to cover the surface completely, but don’t stir.

Step 5: Add the Butter

Drizzle melted butter over the top of the cake mix, doing your best to get as much of it moistened as possible. Some dry spots are okay — they turn golden and crunchy.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly around the edges.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the dump cake cool for at least 15 minutes. This helps the layers set a bit and makes serving easier. It’s incredible warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

One of the best things about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your pantry or dietary needs. Swap out the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend for a new fruity twist. Canned pie fillings also work great if you’re short on fresh or frozen fruit.

Want to lighten it up a bit? Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar slightly. You can also try a white cake mix or even a butter pecan mix for a unique spin on the flavor profile. For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This cake is at its best served slightly warm, right out of the oven or reheated gently. I love pairing it with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It also works beautifully with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or a few fresh berries on top.

For a dessert table, this pairs wonderfully with lighter options like cherry-topped coconut macaroons or strawberry flaky puff dreams, offering contrast in texture and richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 5 days. To reheat, just microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

You can also freeze it. Just wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it should be good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What is a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

A Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple dessert made by layering strawberries, a cream cheese mixture, dry cake mix, and melted butter in a baking dish, then baking it all together. The result is a fruity, creamy, cake-topped dessert with very little prep work.

Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh and don’t even need to be thawed before baking.

How do I know when Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is done?

It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. This usually takes about 45-50 minutes at 350°F.

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving or reheat as needed.

Do I need to refrigerate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Yes, because it contains cream cheese, any leftovers should be kept refrigerated for food safety.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake left you wanting more, you have to try my delicious lemon cake to die for. It’s bright, citrusy, and melts in your mouth. Another one to bookmark is the best cheesecake deviled strawberries—perfect for parties or bite-sized indulgence.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Loved this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest! Whether you’re saving it for your next gathering, holiday spread, or weeknight sweet craving, this is one recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Share it with your friends on Facebook or email it to someone who needs a little sweet joy in their day. Every share helps keep the deliciousness going!

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