Imagine biting into a luscious, creamy cheesecake layered with juicy, vibrant strawberries and wrapped in a tender, buttery cake crust that practically melts in your mouth. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines the best summer flavors with a surprisingly easy assembly, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a delightful dessert, or craving a sweet snack, this dump cake offers a perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries that will captivate taste buds with every bite.
- Effortless one-bowl preparation perfect for busy cooks eager to impress.
- The combination of creamy cheesecake and fruity strawberry creates a delightful flavor contrast.
- Versatile dessert suitable for parties, holidays, or simple family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Frozen Strawberries (4 cups): Sweet and tart berries that add vibrant color and fresh flavor to the dessert.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Provides a rich, smooth, and tangy base that mimics classic cheesecake texture.
- Sugar (1 cup): Balances the tartness of strawberries and cheesecake with sweet undertones.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances depth by bringing warm aromatic notes to the cheesecake layer.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): Dry cake mix creates a moist, tender crumb topping with buttery softness.
- Butter (1 cup, melted): Adds rich moisture and helps the cake mixture bake golden and crisp on top.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind ingredients together, creating a creamy texture for the cheesecake layer.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and helps achieve a smooth consistency in the batter.
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese mixture to perfection.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
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Begin by beating the cream cheese, powdered sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract together in a bowl. This mixture creates the rich and smooth cheesecake layer, which contrasts beautifully with the crumbly cake topping.
- Layer the Strawberries
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Spread the frozen strawberries evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Using frozen berries ensures the cheesecake layer bakes evenly while providing a juicy, flavorful base.
- Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
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Pour the prepared cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it evenly to cover the fruit. This forms the creamy mid-layer that blends tangy and sweet flavors in every bite.
- Sprinkle Dry Cake Mix
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Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer. The dry mix will absorb some moisture while baking, creating a tender cake topping with sweet crunch.
- Drizzle Melted Butter
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Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter helps create a golden-brown crust, giving the dump cake its signature rich, buttery flavor and texture.
- Bake Until Golden and Set
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dump cake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling. This baking time allows the layers to meld, creating a beautiful marbled cheesecake dessert.
- Cool Before Serving
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Let the cake cool for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the cheesecake layer to set. Cooling also enhances the flavors and ensures neat slices.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries if preferred, but adjust baking time slightly to account for moisture content.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the cheesecake layer.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the top before baking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar add a pretty finishing touch.
- Use a spatula to gently loosen the edges before slicing to maintain clean serving portions.
- Let the cake cool completely for the best texture and easier slicing.
- Enhance flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright hint.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
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Yes, fresh strawberries can be used. You may want to reduce baking time slightly because fresh berries release less liquid.
- Is it necessary to melt the butter before pouring?
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Yes, melting the butter helps it distribute evenly over the cake mix, ensuring a moist, golden crust.
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
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Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate gluten sensitivities without losing texture.
- How can I store leftovers?
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Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze wrapped pieces for up to 3 months.
- Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
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You can assemble the dump cake a few hours before baking, but avoid longer storage to prevent sogginess.
- What other fruits work well in this dump cake?
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Try blueberries, peaches, or raspberries for delicious variations with similar flavor profiles.
- Is there a way to make the cheesecake layer lighter?
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Use reduced-fat cream cheese and substitute some milk with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Equipment
- 1 baking dish 9x13 inch recommended
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread sliced strawberries evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Slice or dollop cream cheese over the strawberries, distributing evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberries.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix layer.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top to add extra sweetness and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use frozen strawberries when fresh are unavailable.
- Layer ingredients carefully for best texture.
- Store leftovers covered in fridge up to 3 days.
- Try with other berries or fruits for variation.