Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Easy, Creamy & Irresistible

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity goodness of strawberries—all in a simple, no-fuss recipe. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for a quick treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dump cake requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. With layers of cake mix, strawberry filling, and a smooth cheesecake layer, every bite is a delicious mix of textures and tastes.

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake couldn’t be easier—just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! There’s no need for complicated mixing or extra dishes, making it a go-to dessert for busy days, family gatherings, or last-minute sweet cravings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ingredients to use, step-by-step instructions, expert tips to prevent dry spots, and creative variations to make this dessert your own. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

What Is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

The Origin of Dump Cakes

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake belongs to a long tradition of effortless desserts that require little to no mixing. Dump cakes became popular in American kitchens due to their simplicity—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. Unlike traditional cakes that require careful measuring, mixing, and layering, dump cakes are designed for ease, making them a favorite for home bakers of all skill levels.

Why This Dessert Is So Popular

One of the biggest reasons Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake has gained so much love is its irresistible combination of flavors. The tangy sweetness of strawberries blends perfectly with the rich, creamy cheesecake layer, all topped with a buttery, golden cake mix crust. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy—a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make but only requires a few simple steps.

How This Recipe Combines Cheesecake and Cake

Most dump cakes use fruit fillings and cake mix, but Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake takes it to the next level by incorporating a cheesecake layer. This creamy addition makes the dessert extra rich and decadent, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Instead of a classic cheesecake with a crust, this version layers the ingredients effortlessly, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully as they bake.

With its easy preparation and incredible flavor, this dessert is a must-try for anyone who loves cheesecake, strawberries, or a quick and delicious treat. In the next section, we’ll go over all the ingredients you need to make the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.

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Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Flavor

To make a delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is its ease—no complicated techniques or specialty items required. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Strawberry pie filling – This provides the sweet, fruity base of the cake. If you prefer, you can use fresh strawberries (we’ll cover how to do that later).
• Cream cheese – The key to creating the rich cheesecake layer. Softened cream cheese blends seamlessly into the dessert, adding a creamy texture.
• Sugar – A small amount of sugar enhances the cheesecake layer’s sweetness and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
• Vanilla extract – A dash of vanilla deepens the flavor and pairs well with both the strawberries and cream cheese.
• Yellow or white cake mix – This forms the buttery, crumbly topping that makes dump cakes so delicious.
• Butter – Melted butter is poured over the cake mix to create a crisp, golden crust. It’s crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Optional Additions for Extra Texture and Taste

While the basic Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is already delicious, you can customize it with extra ingredients for more flavor and texture:

• Fresh strawberries – Add sliced strawberries on top of the filling for a fresher, juicier bite.
• Graham cracker crumbs – Sprinkle some on top to enhance the cheesecake flavor.
• Chopped nuts – Pecans or almonds add a satisfying crunch.
• White chocolate chips – A great way to make the dessert even more indulgent.

Choosing the Best Cake Mix for This Recipe

The cake mix you choose plays a big role in the final taste and texture of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Here are the best options:

• Yellow cake mix – A classic choice that adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• White cake mix – Provides a lighter, vanilla-forward taste.
• French vanilla cake mix – A great option for an extra boost of creamy flavor.
• Strawberry cake mix – If you want even more strawberry flavor in every bite!

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Prepping Your Baking Dish

Before you start assembling your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, it’s important to prepare your baking dish properly. This ensures the dessert bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
3. Gather all ingredients so you can easily layer them without delays.

Layering the Ingredients for Best Results

The key to a perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is layering the ingredients correctly. Follow these steps for the best texture and flavor:

1. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. If using fresh strawberries, mix them with a little sugar and cornstarch before layering.
2. Prepare the cheesecake layer by beating softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
3. Dollop the cheesecake mixture over the strawberry filling, gently spreading it for an even layer.
4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cheesecake and strawberries. Do not mix—this is what gives dump cakes their signature texture.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible to prevent dry spots.

Baking Tips to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out golden, gooey, and delicious, follow these baking tips:

• Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—there should be no raw cake mix on it.
• Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Once baked, your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm on its own, or pair it with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. In the next section, we’ll discuss whether you can use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling and how to adjust the recipe accordingly.

Can You Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Pie Filling?

How Fresh Strawberries Affect the Texture

Many people wonder if they can swap canned pie filling for fresh fruit in Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. The short answer is yes, but fresh strawberries will change the texture slightly. While pie filling is thick and syrupy, fresh strawberries release juice as they bake, which can make the cake a bit more moist and less structured. However, with a few adjustments, you can achieve the perfect balance.

Adjusting the Sweetness and Liquid Content

If using fresh strawberries, you’ll need to make a simple adjustment to prevent your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from becoming too watery or tart:

1. Slice 3-4 cups of fresh strawberries and place them in a mixing bowl.
2. Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar to enhance the natural sweetness.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to help thicken the juices while baking.
4. Let the strawberries sit for 10-15 minutes to release some of their natural juices before layering them in the baking dish.

Best Ways to Incorporate Fresh Strawberries

To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake bakes properly with fresh fruit, follow these tips:

• Don’t skip the cornstarch or flour – It helps absorb excess moisture and prevents a soggy cake.
• Spread the strawberries evenly – This ensures each bite has a good balance of fruit, cheesecake, and cake mix.
• Adjust baking time if needed – Fresh strawberries may require an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven to fully caramelize and soften.

Using fresh strawberries in Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake gives it a lighter, more natural fruit flavor, perfect for those who prefer homemade over canned ingredients. In the next section, we’ll cover a common baking challenge—how to prevent dry spots on top of the cake for the perfect golden crust.

How to Prevent Dry Spots on Top of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

The Importance of Even Butter Distribution

One of the most common issues when making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is dry spots on the top layer. These occur when parts of the dry cake mix do not absorb enough butter during baking, leading to powdery or unevenly cooked sections. The key to preventing this is ensuring the butter is evenly distributed across the surface.

Tips for Achieving a Golden, Moist Top Layer

To avoid dry spots and get a perfectly golden, buttery topping, follow these techniques:

1. Melt the butter instead of slicing it – Drizzling melted butter over the cake mix ensures better coverage than placing cold butter slices on top.
2. Use a spoon or pastry brush – After drizzling the butter, gently spread it using the back of a spoon or a pastry brush to coat any dry patches.
3. Try adding heavy cream – For an extra moist and rich topping, mix ¼ cup of heavy cream with the melted butter before pouring it over the cake mix.
4. Give it a light stir – While dump cakes are meant to be “dumped” and baked, lightly mixing the top layer with a fork can help ensure even moisture absorption.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Using too little butter – If your cake mix isn’t fully covered, the result will be dry and uneven. Make sure you use at least 1 cup (2 sticks) of melted butter.
• Not covering the cake evenly – Pour the butter slowly in a zig-zag motion to ensure full coverage.
• Baking at too high of a temperature – Baking at 350°F is ideal; anything higher can cause parts of the cake mix to cook too quickly while leaving others dry.

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Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Ahead of Time – Does It Work?

Best Ways to Store Your Dump Cake

If you’re wondering whether you can make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time, the answer is yes! This dessert stores well and can be enjoyed later with just a few simple steps. To keep it fresh and delicious, follow these storage methods:

• Refrigerator Storage: Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain its creamy texture.
• Freezer Storage: If you want to save your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for later, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

How Long Can You Keep It Fresh?

The key to keeping Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fresh is proper storage. Here’s a quick guide:

If you plan to eat it within a day, you can leave it at room temperature covered with foil. However, for longer storage, refrigeration is best to keep the cheesecake layer from spoiling.

Reheating Tips for Maximum Flavor

To bring back the warm, gooey texture of freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, use these reheating methods:

• Oven Method (Best for Crispiness) – Preheat your oven to 325°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps restore the crispy topping.
• Microwave Method (Quick & Easy) – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Chocolate Lovers’ Version

If you’re a chocolate fan, you can easily turn Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake into a decadent chocolate dessert. Here’s how:

• Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow or white cake mix for a rich, fudgy contrast.
• Add chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer or sprinkle them on top before baking.
• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished cake for extra indulgence.
• Serve with chocolate ice cream or hot fudge sauce for the ultimate chocolate-strawberry combination.

Low-Sugar and Gluten-Free Options

For those looking for a healthier version of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, here are some easy substitutions:

• Use a sugar-free cake mix to reduce the overall sugar content.
• Replace the strawberry pie filling with fresh strawberries and a sugar-free sweetener.
• Opt for a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert completely gluten-free.
• Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter cheesecake layer without sacrificing flavor.

Other Fruit Combinations to Try

While Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different fruit flavors to create new variations:

• Mixed Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Combine strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful, sweet-tart twist.
• Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake – Swap the strawberry pie filling for canned or fresh peaches for a summery flavor.
• Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Use cherry pie filling for a tangy, sweet alternative.
• Apple Cheesecake Dump Cake – Perfect for fall, using spiced apple pie filling with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet with minimal effort. This recipe brings together the rich creaminess of cheesecake, the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries, and the buttery, golden cake topping for a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make but comes together in just minutes.

What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake even better is its versatility. You can customize it with different fruits, cake mixes, or toppings, make it gluten-free or low-sugar, and even prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Plus, with the right baking techniques, you’ll never have to worry about dry spots or uneven textures.

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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Easy, Creamy & Irresistible

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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a rich and creamy dessert with layers of strawberry filling, smooth cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• Optional: 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling and gently spread it.
5. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, ensuring even coverage.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
9. Serve warm on its own or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

For a fresher taste, substitute canned pie filling with 3-4 cups of fresh strawberries mixed with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. To prevent dry spots, ensure butter is evenly drizzled across the cake mix.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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