There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warm cake wafting through the kitchen, instantly transforming a regular day into something special. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the rich, creamy essence of cheesecake with the bright, sweet notes of fresh strawberries. What I love most about this scrumptious treat is its effortless preparation—perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that offers a comforting slice of nostalgia for anyone who appreciates homemade goodness. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this cake will bring joy and satisfaction to your table. So, are you ready to dive into this simple yet indulgent dessert? Let’s get baking! Why is this cake a must-try? Deliciously Unique: This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful twist on traditional desserts, merging the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity freshness of strawberries. Effortless Preparation: With minimal steps and no fuss, you can have this cake baking in no time—perfect for those hectic days or surprise guests! Crowd Favorite: This dessert is a hit at any gathering, bringing smiles and satisfied taste buds, much like my Triple Chocolate Cheesecakes. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite fruit fillings or add in some chocolate chips, making each bake a new experience! Comforting Texture: The combination of creamy cheesecake and moist cake layer creates a hearty, cozy dessert, reminiscent of sweet childhood memories. Storage-Friendly: Leftovers last up to three days in the fridge—ideal for a treat that keeps giving. Enjoy warm or chilled, perhaps paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side! Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Ingredients For the Cake Base Yellow Cake Mix – Serves as the foundation of this delightful dessert; choose a gluten-free mix for a gluten-free option. Unsalted Butter – Binds the ingredients together and adds a rich flavor; melted coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative. Milk – Ensures the cake remains moist; almond milk works perfectly for a lactose-free version. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy and rich cheesecake flavor; low-fat cream cheese can lighten it up if desired. Granulated Sugar – Balances the tang of the cream cheese with sweetness; coconut sugar makes for a unique substitute. Vanilla Extract – Amplifies the overall flavor; always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results. For the Strawberry Layer Strawberry Pie Filling – Forms the fruity and sweet base of the cake; you can swap it for blueberry or cherry filling for a different twist. Fresh Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and freshness; feel free to use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t on hand. Optional Flavor Enhancer Cinnamon – Introduces a warm, cozy flavor; consider nutmeg for an alternate spice note or leave it out if preferred. This easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is sure to impress with its delightful layers and comforting flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray or butter. This ensures that the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake comes out easily after baking. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients for a smooth workflow. Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend everything together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This luscious mixture will serve as the cheesecake layer of your cake, so ensure there are no lumps for a velvety finish. Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Filling Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, layer fresh, sliced strawberries on top, distributing them evenly to create a beautiful foundation for your dessert. The vibrant colors and aromas will set the stage for the indulgent flavors of the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Layer Pour the cream cheese mixture directly over the layer of strawberries. Use a spatula to carefully spread it out evenly to cover the berries completely. This will create a rich, creamy layer that melts into the cake once baked, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dump cake. Step 5: Prepare the Cake Mix Topping In another mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and milk. Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined; it’s okay if a few small lumps remain. Carefully pour this cake batter over the cream cheese layer, ensuring even distribution without disturbing the layers underneath. Step 6: (Optional) Add Cinnamon If you’re using cinnamon, now’s the time to sprinkle a light dusting over the top of the cake mix layer. This optional step adds a lovely warmth to the flavor profile of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, elevating it to a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Step 7: Bake the Cake Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes of baking; you want a firm top that springs back slightly when touched. Step 8: Cool Before Serving Once baked, remove the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling period helps the layers set together, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy every delicious bite when serving this delightful dessert! Make Ahead Options Preparing your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save yourself some stress on busy days! You can mix the cream cheese layer and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling your cake. The strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries can also be layered in the baking dish and refrigerated overnight to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the mixture out of the fridge, pour the prepared cake batter on top, and bake as directed. This ensures that your dessert will be just as delicious and ready to impress your guests with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake fresh while retaining its creamy texture for your next indulgent treat. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds, or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve the cheesecake layer’s moisture. Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the strawberry cheesecake dump cake chilled or warmed, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat! Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer, creating a smooth, luscious finish. Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the cake batter; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that detracts from this easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Layering Order: Make sure to spread the strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries evenly before adding the cream cheese mixture for balanced flavors in every bite. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers to set and makes slicing much easier, ensuring a beautiful presentation. Taste Variation: Feel free to swap the strawberry filling for other fruits like blueberries or cherries for a delightful twist on flavor while maintaining that delicious cheesecake essence. What to Serve with Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Imagine the joy of sitting down to a home-cooked meal, complemented perfectly by flavors that enhance the sweet, creamy layers of this cake. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture and buttery flavor provide a delightful contrast to the cake’s sweetness and create a comforting dining experience. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dessert, offering a taste of vibrancy. Grilled Chicken Breast: Lightly seasoned chicken adds protein and savoriness, making it a wonderful counterpart to the sweet, fruity cheesecake. The contrast in flavors creates a well-rounded meal. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and zucchini enhance your meal with natural sweetness, echoing the flavors of the strawberry cheesecake while also adding color to your plate. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side to create a classic pairing that melts beautifully into the warm cake, enhancing its indulgent experience. Sparkling Lemonade: This effervescent drink refreshes the palate, counterbalancing the richness of the dessert and elevating your dining pleasure. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: As an extra treat, these delightful bites showcase the strawberry theme, making your dessert experience feel festive and indulgent. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup after dessert adds a soothing touch, helping to smooth the transition from sweet to savory, and is perfect for winding down the meal. Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Variations Feel free to get creative with this dessert and make it your own—there’s a whole world of flavors waiting to be explored! Fruit Filling: Swap strawberry pie filling for blueberry, peach, or even cherry pie filling to infuse new fruity notes into the cake. Each variation brings a fresh twist that keeps your taste buds guessing! Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries work well too! Just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid adding extra moisture to your cake. Gluten-Free Option: Choose a gluten-free cake mix to make this cake accessible for everyone, ensuring that no one misses out on the deliciousness. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cake mix layer for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully. Chocolate Swirl: For chocolate lovers, try folding in some chocolate chips or a layer of chocolate sauce to the cream cheese mixture. This gives the cake an indulgently rich twist! Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk instead of regular milk and try coconut oil instead of butter to make this cake fully dairy-free without sacrificing flavor. Spicy Twist: Substitute cinnamon with some pumpkin pie spice for a unique, fall-inspired flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of strawberries. Citrus Zing: Add a bit of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture to elevate the flavor profile and give it a refreshing zing. With these variations, you can keep this delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fresh and exciting every time! You might even try some of your favorite cake recipes like Key Lime Cheesecake or Cheesecake Brownies Dessert for more delicious inspiration. Enjoy the delicious journey! Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe strawberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries that are firm and free of dark spots or bruises. A sweet aroma is also a good indicator of ripeness. If you’re using frozen strawberries, opt for those without added sugar, and allow them to thaw before incorporating them into the cake. How should I store leftovers of the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the cake remains fresh and retains its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can serve it chilled or microwave individual slices for 15-30 seconds to warm them up just right! Can I freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? Definitely! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, and consider warming individual slices in the microwave for a cozy dessert experience. What if my cake is too dense or doesn’t rise? If your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. When combining the cake mix, melted butter, and milk, mix just until combined; a few lumps are okay. Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh and your oven temperature is accurate. Using a toothpick to check for doneness helps avoid underbaking too! Can the recipe be modified for dietary restrictions? Very much so! To make a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that the other ingredients, like the pie filling and cream cheese, are gluten-free. For dairy-free options, swap in coconut oil for butter and almond milk for regular milk. These modifications still provide that delightful creamy texture while accommodating various dietary needs! Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for Easy Indulgence A delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that combines rich cheesecake and sweet strawberries, perfect for easy indulgence. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake Base1 box Yellow Cake Mix Gluten-free option available1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Melted coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative1 cup Milk Almond milk for lactose-free optionFor the Cheesecake Layer8 oz Cream Cheese Low-fat option available1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can be used as substitute1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla extract for best resultsFor the Strawberry Layer1 can Strawberry Pie Filling Can substitute with blueberry or cherry filling1 cup Fresh Strawberries Frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are unavailableOptional Flavor Enhancer1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg can be used as an alternate spice Equipment 9x13-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Layer fresh, sliced strawberries on top.Pour the cream cheese mixture directly over the strawberries, spreading it evenly.In another bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and milk until just combined. Pour over the cream cheese layer.If using cinnamon, sprinkle it lightly over the cake mix layer.Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.Allow to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving to let the layers set. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesLeftovers last up to three days in the fridge. Enjoy warm or chilled, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
