If you’re craving something sweet, fruity, and creamy—without spending hours in the kitchen—then the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is exactly what you need. This simple, no-fuss dessert combines the juicy punch of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all nestled under a fluffy, golden cake layer. It’s a dreamy dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery, but you can whip it up with just a few pantry staples.
From potlucks to weeknight cravings, this dump cake hits every note: it’s easy, quick, and totally satisfying. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes this dessert so special, the exact ingredients and steps to make it, variations like chocolate strawberry cheesecake dump cake, serving tips, and answers to common questions.
Table of Contents
Looking for inspiration? Try Pistachio Butter Cookies – The Delicious Twist You Need to Try for another easy dessert option.
Introduction to Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever make. You “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish—typically a fruit filling, a layer of dry cake mix, and butter—and bake it until golden and bubbly. No need to mix or fuss over multiple bowls. It’s a lazy baker’s dream come true, delivering maximum flavor with minimum effort.
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake takes this concept to the next level by adding a luscious cheesecake layer that melts into the strawberry filling. The result? A warm, gooey, rich dessert that’s a cross between a cobbler, cake, and cheesecake.
Why Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the Perfect Quick Dessert
When time is short but your sweet tooth is calling, this cake delivers big. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you just need a pick-me-up. Here’s why it works:
- Minimal prep: No mixers or special equipment needed.
- Few ingredients: Most are probably already in your pantry.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, drizzle caramel, or swap in other fruits.
This dessert fits the bill whether you’re prepping for a potluck or just want to cozy up with a warm bowl of something sweet.
Don’t miss our Dubai Pistachio Cream – Why It’s the Luxe Spread Everyone’s Talking About for another creamy treat to explore.
The Growing Trend of Cheesecake-Based Dump Cakes
Classic dump cakes have been a staple in Southern kitchens for decades. But lately, there’s been a surge in cheesecake-enhanced dump cakes, thanks to the way cream cheese balances the sweetness of canned pie fillings and cake mix. The cream cheese melts into the filling as it bakes, creating a creamy ribbon of tangy richness throughout the cake.
Popular flavors now include:
- Cherry cheesecake dump cake
- Blueberry cream cheese dump cake
- And of course, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Why is strawberry so popular? Because it’s timeless. The combination of bright, fruity strawberry and smooth, tangy cream cheese is unbeatable.
Check out Bariatric Seed Recipe – The Best Fat-Burning Mix for Sustainable Weight Loss if you’re looking for balance after dessert.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: The Best Easy Dessert You’ll Ever Bake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Whether it’s a holiday, a casual get-together, or just a Wednesday night treat, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake hits all the right notes – sweet, creamy, gooey, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Distribute the cubed cream cheese evenly over the pie filling.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the top – do not mix in.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly across the entire surface of the cake mix.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm for a gooey dessert or chill for a firmer texture.
Notes
Top with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, chocolate or caramel drizzle, or powdered sugar for a bakery-style presentation. Use a clear dish or serve in jars for parties. Try adding blueberries for a 4th of July twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake dump cake, dump cake, strawberry dessert, quick cheesecake, potluck dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is as simple as layering and baking. But to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor, using the right ingredients matters. Here’s what you’ll need and how to personalize your creation.
Core Ingredients for a Traditional Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Let’s start with the must-haves. These are the base ingredients that create the classic strawberry cheesecake flavor and texture combo.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 box yellow or white cake mix | Forms the fluffy top layer |
| 2 cans strawberry pie filling | Brings the fruity base |
| 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened | Adds creamy, tangy richness |
| 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted | Helps the cake mix bake golden and crisp |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) | Boosts the cheesecake flavor |
Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest results.
You can also go with cherry or blueberry pie filling, but strawberry keeps it fresh and classic.
Discover great ideas like 4 Ingredients In Natural Zepbound – The Simple Fat-Burning Formula Everyone’s Talking About for smart swaps if you’re watching your intake.
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor Variations
Want to level up your cake or create your signature version? Try these optional ingredients to twist your dump cake into something truly unique:
- White chocolate chips – Melt into the filling for creamy sweetness
- Sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers – Add crunch on top
- Shredded coconut – Pairs perfectly with strawberry for a tropical vibe
- Mini marshmallows – For a gooey, s’mores-like experience
- Cinnamon or nutmeg – Adds warmth to the flavor profile
And for a richer dessert, consider layering in sweetened condensed milk or swapping vanilla extract with almond extract.
Where to Find the Best Baking Ingredients (Fresh vs Canned)
You might wonder—should you use fresh strawberries or canned pie filling?
- Canned strawberry pie filling is the easiest and gives the right syrupy consistency for layering.
- Fresh strawberries can be used but must be cooked down with sugar and cornstarch first. This adds time but can deliver a more natural fruit flavor.
| Ingredient Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Canned Filling | Convenient, consistent texture | Can be overly sweet |
| Fresh Strawberries | Natural flavor, lower sugar | Requires prep and thickener |
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This is where the magic happens. Dump cakes are known for being super simple, but when you’re working with cream cheese and fruit layers, a few tips can take your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from good to irresistible.
Preparing the Pan and Layering the Ingredients
To ensure even baking and prevent sticking, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment for easier cleanup.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Add dollops of cream cheese over the top of the strawberries. You don’t need to blend it—just cut into small cubes or use a spoon to drop chunks across the filling.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top. Do not mix.
- Drizzle the melted butter across the surface. Try to cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible to prevent dry patches.
- Optional: Add toppings like white chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, or sliced almonds.
Bonus Tip: If you want a softer top layer, you can pour a small amount of milk (2–3 tbsp) over the cake mix before baking. It helps hydrate the dry spots without overbaking.
Tips for Ensuring the Cheesecake Layer Sets Just Right
The key to getting that perfect, creamy texture with a slightly tangy bite is spacing out the cream cheese evenly. Here are a few tricks:
- Use room temperature cream cheese so it softens into the filling while baking.
- Avoid placing large clumps together—space the dollops out for better melting and distribution.
- Want a swirl effect? Use a butter knife to lightly drag through the cream cheese and pie filling before adding the cake mix. This gives you a marbled look and better flavor blend.
Looking for inspiration? Try Pistachio Butter – The Creamy, Nutritious Spread Taking Over Kitchens for a topping alternative that adds nutty richness.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time Suggestions
Here’s your cheat sheet for baking the cake to perfection:
| Oven Temp | Bake Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 45–50 minutes | Evenly baked, golden top |
| 375°F (190°C) | 40–45 minutes | Crispier top, slightly darker crust |
| Convection Oven | -5°F and 5–10 mins less | Faster baking, but watch for dry spots |
You’ll know it’s ready when:
- The top is golden and bubbling at the edges
- The cream cheese has melted into the filling
- A toothpick comes out mostly clean from the cake portion
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes scooping easier.
Creative Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Want to switch things up? This dump cake is versatile, and with a few simple tweaks, you can tailor it for dietary needs or fresh presentation styles.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Alternatives
No need to miss out on dessert just because of dietary restrictions:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free yellow or chocolate cake mix. Many brands now offer 1:1 swaps that bake just as well.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese (like almond or oat-based) and use plant-based butter. Stick with a vegan-friendly cake mix if needed.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of salt to dairy-free mixes to enhance flavor depth.
Turning It Into Mini Cupcakes or Bars
For parties or portion control, try these formats:
- Cupcake Style: Layer ingredients into lined muffin tins. Bake 25–30 minutes.
- Bar Style: Use a square 9×9 pan, let cool fully, and cut into squares for grab-and-go desserts.
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Adding Seasonal Fruit and Toppings
Want to match the mood or season?
- Spring: Add rhubarb or fresh strawberries.
- Fall: Mix in cinnamon and a handful of chopped pecans.
- Holiday: Top with crushed peppermint or red velvet cake mix for festive flair.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even easy recipes like Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can have hiccups. Here’s how to fix them fast:
Too Runny or Too Dry?
- Runny? Bake longer until bubbly and golden. Avoid adding fresh fruit without thickening.
- Dry? Make sure butter is evenly distributed. Add a few tablespoons of milk if needed.
Cheesecake Layer Issues?
- Sunken or vanished cheesecake? Use cold, cubed cream cheese instead of softened or overmixed.
- Uneven top? Gently spread dry cake mix before pouring butter.
Storing & Reheating
- Fridge: 4 days, covered.
- Freezer: 2 months, sealed.
- Reheat: Microwave 30–45 secs or oven at 300°F for 10–15 mins.
Don’t miss our Bariatric Seed Recipe – The Best Fat-Burning Mix for Sustainable Weight Loss if you’re planning to balance sweet with healthy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Simple Toppings That Wow
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Chocolate or caramel drizzle
- Powdered sugar
These quick adds make your dump cake feel bakery-worthy in seconds.
Serve Warm or Chilled?
- Warm = gooey and rich, best with ice cream
- Chilled = firmer, cheesecake-like, great for next-day leftovers
Party-Ready Presentation
- Use a clear dish to show off the layers
- Serve in jars or glasses for events
- Garnish with fruit or edible flowers
Don’t miss our Pistachio Butter – The Creamy, Nutritious Spread Taking Over Kitchens if you’re looking to top it with something unique.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for Different Occasions
Whether it’s a holiday, casual get-together, or just a Wednesday night, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fits right in.
Quick Family Desserts & Potlucks
Need a fast dessert for dinner or a potluck? This cake is easy to prep and always gets devoured. Bake it in a disposable pan for easy transport and cleanup.
Perfect for Holidays and Celebrations
- Valentine’s Day: Red strawberries + creamy cheesecake = romance
- Mother’s Day: Add floral garnish or pastel sprinkles
- Christmas: Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint
- 4th of July: Add blueberries for a red, white, and blue twist
Make Dump Cake Your Go-To Dessert
Once you make it once, you’ll come back to it again and again. It’s perfect when you:
- Need something delicious fast
- Want a low-mess baking win
- Crave cheesecake but don’t want to bake a full one
FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Here are answers to the most common questions people ask about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake—quick, clear, and helpful.
Is strawberry cheesecake dump cake easy?
Yes—it’s one of the easiest desserts you can make. Just layer canned strawberry filling, dollops of cream cheese, sprinkle dry cake mix, pour butter on top, and bake. No mixing, no special tools.
How do you make a chocolate strawberry dump cake?
Simply swap in a chocolate cake mix and add mini chocolate chips between layers. Keep everything else the same. Want a twist? Add dark chocolate chunks or drizzle fudge sauce on top.
How long do you bake a strawberry cheesecake dump cake?
Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Can you use fresh strawberries instead of canned?
Yes, but cook them down first with sugar and cornstarch to create a filling consistency. Canned pie filling is faster and gives a syrupy texture that’s ideal for dump cakes.
How do you make this cake ahead of time?
Assemble the cake and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake it ahead and refrigerate. It reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Does it need to be refrigerated after baking?
Yes. Once cooled, refrigerate leftovers due to the cream cheese. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, or you can freeze it for later.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert shortcut—rich, creamy, fruity, and foolproof. Whether you’re baking for a party, treating yourself midweek, or looking to impress with zero stress, this cake delivers every time.
It’s endlessly customizable, easy to prep, and full of comforting flavors that people love. Plus, with fun twists like chocolate, gluten-free versions, and creative toppings, it’s a recipe that can grow with you.
Don’t let the ease fool you—it tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
Check out Dubai Pistachio Cream – Why It’s the Luxe Spread Everyone’s Talking About to explore another creamy, sweet creation you can add to your dessert repertoire.
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