By Lana | Last modified on Nov 16, 2025

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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Must Know

  • 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.

Professional Tips

  • 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?

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?

Yes, melting the butter helps it distribute evenly over the cake mix, ensuring a moist, golden crust.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate gluten sensitivities without losing texture.

How can I store leftovers?

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?

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?

Try blueberries, peaches, or raspberries for delicious variations with similar flavor profiles.

Is there a way to make the cheesecake layer lighter?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese and substitute some milk with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Lana
This easy strawberry cheesecake dump cake combines fresh strawberries with creamy cheesecake flavors and a buttery cake topping for a quick, delicious dessert that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 320 kcal

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.

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