There’s something magical about dessert recipes that require little effort but deliver big flavors. That’s exactly what you get with a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser, especially when you want a sweet treat that feels like it took hours to prepare, but really doesn’t. When I first made this recipe, I was looking for a way to combine two of my favorite desserts—cheesecake and strawberry shortcake—into something that was simple and easy for a busy day. It was a rainy afternoon, and I didn’t have the energy for a complicated bake, but I still wanted to satisfy my sweet tooth.

That’s when the idea of a dump cake came to mind. Essentially, dump cakes are the perfect lazy-day dessert. You simply dump the ingredients into a baking dish, give them a quick stir, and bake. The result is always a delicious, comforting, and indulgent treat. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of strawberries made this dump cake an instant hit. From that first bite, I knew I’d be making this again and again for family gatherings, birthdays, and even cozy nights in.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and satisfying, then you’ll want to read on. This easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake might just become your new go-to dessert!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s a reason why dump cakes have become so popular over the years. They’re simple, quick, and incredibly versatile. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is no different—it combines the decadent creaminess of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries, all in a foolproof dessert.

What makes this recipe stand out, though, is its ability to marry two favorite flavors into one delicious bite. The cream cheese filling creates that classic cheesecake texture, while the strawberries add a bright and tangy contrast. On top, a buttery, cake-like crust forms as it bakes, adding just the right amount of sweetness and crunch.

But what really makes this dessert special is its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy equipment, and it requires minimal prep work. This is perfect for when you want something that’s impressive yet doesn’t require a lot of time. And if you’re someone who enjoys desserts that come together with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up.

In short, this recipe is all about making a show-stopping dessert without any of the fuss. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this cake has a way of making everyone feel special.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—these ingredients come together to create an irresistible dessert.

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you will need:

Strawberry Jam or Preserves: The star of this dish. Strawberry preserves give that burst of fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer. You can also use fresh strawberries if you prefer, but the jam makes it much easier and still just as delicious.
Cream Cheese: This is where the cheesecake magic happens. Cream cheese gives the cake its smooth, velvety texture and richness. It’s essential for getting that cheesecake-like flavor without having to make an actual cheesecake.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness in the recipe, and it creates that delicious, crumbly topping that’s signature to dump cakes.
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base for the crumbly top. It’s convenient, and you don’t have to worry about mixing flour, sugar, or leavening agents. The cake mix ensures a light, soft, and slightly sweet finish.
Sugar: A little sugar enhances the sweetness, especially since the strawberry jam and cake mix already bring some sweetness to the dish.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a warm, fragrant depth to the cheesecake filling, making it even more irresistible.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the cheesecake layer and provide structure to the filling.
Milk: Milk helps to smooth out the cream cheese filling, making it rich but not overly thick.

This is the basic list of ingredients you need, but you can also add a few extras, such as chopped nuts or a drizzle of whipped cream, to make it your own.

How Much Time Will You Need?

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick it is to make.

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s just a matter of layering them and letting the oven do the work. The hands-on time is minimal, which makes this dessert perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying treat.

How to Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Here’s your step-by-step guide to making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the milk to the cream cheese mixture and stir until fully incorporated. This will create a smooth, pourable cheesecake filling.

Step 4: Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’re using fresh strawberries, cut them into slices and spread them in an even layer.

Step 5: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the top of the cream cheese layer. Be sure to cover the entire surface.

Step 7: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will help the cake topping become golden brown and slightly crispy as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The middle may still be a little jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.

Step 9: Let the dump cake cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, and it’s easier to cut into squares.

Substitutions

While this recipe is already simple and easy, there are a few substitutions you can make to cater to dietary preferences or to use up ingredients you already have.

Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer a variety of flavors, and they’re usually a one-to-one swap for regular cake mix.
Sugar-Free: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can opt for sugar-free strawberry jam and a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for the filling.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream cheese alternative and substitute the butter with a plant-based option.
Fresh Fruit: If fresh strawberries are in season, feel free to use them instead of jam for a more natural, tangy flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

While this dump cake is rich and indulgent on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience. Here are three great side dish options to enjoy with this dessert:

Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream balances the richness of the cheesecake. You can make your own or use store-bought for a quicker option.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Ice cream is a classic pairing with any warm dessert. A scoop of vanilla will complement the fruity and creamy layers of the cake.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to add a burst of freshness and acidity that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving a dessert like the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is all about showcasing its rich layers and vibrant colors. The way you present this cake can really elevate the overall experience, making it feel even more special for your guests. Here are a few tips to serve it up right:

Serving in Individual Portions: Instead of cutting the dump cake into traditional squares, consider serving it in individual bowls or ramekins. This gives it a more personalized feel and allows guests to enjoy it while it’s still warm and gooey.
Garnish with Fresh Fruit: A few fresh strawberries or a handful of mixed berries on top can make a huge difference in presentation. The fresh fruit contrasts the creamy texture of the cake and adds a pop of color.
A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple, elegant touch, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar right before serving. This adds a sophisticated look without overwhelming the flavor.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the side makes for a beautifully presented plate. The coolness of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, rich dump cake.
Using a Glass Dish: Baking the dump cake in a clear glass dish allows you to show off the layers, which adds to its visual appeal. If you don’t have a glass baking dish, any oven-safe dish will work, but the transparency of glass can give the dessert a beautiful layered effect.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Even though the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is incredibly easy to make, there are a few tricks you can use to make it even more impressive:

Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the best, creamiest cheesecake layer, stick with full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat or fat-free versions might alter the texture and flavor, making it less indulgent.
Add a Splash of Lemon: A small splash of fresh lemon juice in the cream cheese filling will give the cake a refreshing, tangy note that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Swirl in Some Jam: After you spread the strawberry jam over the bottom of the dish, try swirling it with a butter knife before adding the cream cheese mixture. This will create a more marbled effect and give the cake a slightly different flavor profile.
Try Different Fruit Combinations: While strawberry is a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruit preserves. Raspberry, blueberry, or even a combination of berries will give the cake a new twist.
Add Nuts: For a bit of texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts over the top of the cake before baking. They’ll toast up nicely during baking and provide a great contrast to the soft cake and creamy filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is straightforward, there are a few mistakes that can be made during preparation that could affect the final result. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Not Using Softened Cream Cheese: It’s important that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. If it’s too cold, it can form lumps that are difficult to break down, making the cheesecake filling less smooth and creamy.
Overmixing the Cake Mix: Once you sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cream cheese layer, you should avoid mixing it in. The beauty of a dump cake is in its layers. Stirring it will result in a dense, less flaky topping.
Not Letting It Cool Before Serving: The dump cake may still be a bit jiggly right after baking. Allowing it to cool for at least 15 minutes helps it set and makes it easier to cut into squares or serve in individual portions.
Baking at Too High of a Temperature: The cake should bake at 350°F to ensure that it cooks evenly without burning the top. Baking at a higher temperature can cause the top to brown too quickly while leaving the filling undercooked.
Using Too Much Butter: While butter is essential for that golden, crispy top, using too much can make the cake greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for the perfect balance.

How to Store It

If you find yourself with leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake (though it’s likely to be gone in no time!), here’s how to store it:

Room Temperature: The dump cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, as long as it’s covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep it longer, you can store the dump cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh. The cheesecake filling is perishable, so it’s important to keep it cool.
Freezing: To freeze leftovers, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to get that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of fruit for this dump cake?
Yes! While strawberry is the traditional choice, you can use any fruit preserves you like. Raspberry, blueberry, or peach preserves would all work wonderfully, or you could combine different fruits for a unique flavor profile.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make it up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to reheat it before serving for the best texture and flavor.

3. Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the regular yellow cake mix. Just make sure to check the other ingredients for hidden gluten, such as in the strawberry jam.

4. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use light cream cheese or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative if you’re looking to reduce the calories. You can also substitute the butter with a lighter oil or use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.

5. Can I make this recipe in a different size pan?
Yes, you can adjust the pan size, but keep in mind that this will affect the baking time. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and may need a few extra minutes to bake. If you use a larger pan, the cake will be thinner and may bake more quickly, so keep an eye on it.