Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: A Decadent Fusion of Creamy, Fruity, and Buttery Delight

If you’re searching for a dessert that effortlessly combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fruity sweetness of strawberries and the warm, buttery crumble of a dump cake, then the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your ultimate answer. This luscious dessert has rapidly gained popularity among home bakers and dessert lovers alike due to its simplicity, minimal prep time, and maximum flavor payoff. Whether it’s for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just a cozy night in, this indulgent treat brings joy with every bite.

The History of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

The concept of a “dump cake” originated in the mid-20th century, particularly gaining traction during the 1950s and 1960s when convenience cooking became popular in American households. The term “dump cake” refers to a no-mix, one-pan dessert where ingredients are literally “dumped” into a baking dish and baked to perfection. It was often made using canned fruit, cake mix, and butter—requiring little effort and few dishes.

On the other hand, cheesecake has roots tracing back to ancient Greece, but the modern version we enjoy today evolved through European and American culinary traditions. Combining these two beloved desserts—the easy dump cake method and the luxurious texture of cheesecake—gave birth to what we now know as the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. While there’s no definitive date of origin, food bloggers and recipe developers began sharing variations of this hybrid dessert around the early 2010s, blending convenience with gourmet flair.

This dessert symbolizes the evolution of comfort food—honoring tradition while embracing innovation. It’s especially loved by busy parents, novice bakers, and anyone who wants an impressive-looking dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes This Cake So Irresistible?

The beauty of the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake lies in its simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. Each layer contributes to a symphony of textures and flavors:

Cream Cheese Layer: Forms the rich, velvety base reminiscent of traditional cheesecake. Full-fat cream cheese ensures a smooth, dense center that contrasts beautifully with the airy cake top.
Granulated Sugar & Vanilla Extract: Enhance sweetness and aroma, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Eggs: Bind the cheesecake layer together, giving it structure and a custard-like consistency.
Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: Provide juicy bursts of natural sweetness and tartness. Fresh berries offer vibrant color and texture; frozen ones work perfectly too, especially when out of season.
Strawberry Pie Filling (Canned): Adds concentrated berry flavor and helps create a jammy, syrupy layer that soaks into the cake.
Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation of the “dump” method—when baked with butter, it transforms into a golden, crumbly crust on top while absorbing fruity juices below.
Butter (Melted): Drizzled over the cake mix, it creates a crisp, buttery topping similar to a cobbler or crisp.
Optional Add-ins: A pinch of cinnamon, lemon zest, or almond extract can elevate the complexity of flavors.

Together, these components create a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, slightly crunchy, and utterly satisfying.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Follow this detailed guide to make a flawless Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake at home. No fancy tools required—just a mixing bowl, spatula, and baking dish!

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or softened butter to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 (8 oz) blocks of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy (about 1–2 minutes). Gradually add ½ cup granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, followed by 2 large eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.
Layer the Fruit Base: Spread 1 (21 oz) can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Gently fold in 1 cup fresh or frozen sliced strawberries (no need to thaw if frozen). This double-layer of strawberries ensures intense fruit flavor throughout.
Add the Cheesecake Mixture: Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry layer. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, sealing in the fruit beneath. Try not to mix it into the strawberries—this keeps the distinct cheesecake layer intact.
Top with Cake Mix: Open 1 box (approx. 15.25 oz) of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the entire surface of the cheesecake layer. Do not stir—let it sit dry on top.
Add Butter: Melt ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter and drizzle it slowly and evenly over the cake mix. Use a butter knife or offset spatula to gently press down in a few spots, helping the butter penetrate slightly—but avoid overmixing.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean (a little goo is okay, but no wet batter).
Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. For best results, refrigerate for 2–3 hours before serving. This allows the cheesecake layer to set and enhances the flavor contrast between warm cake and cool filling.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve as-is or topped with whipped cream, a dollop of sour cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.

Tips for Success: Baking Like a Pro

To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Take the cream cheese out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before starting. Cold cream cheese leads to lumpy batter.
Don’t Overmix After Adding Eggs: Once eggs are added, mix just until combined. Overbeating incorporates too much air, which can cause cracking.
Use Full-Fat Ingredients: Low-fat cream cheese or substitutes may result in a watery or grainy texture.
Even Butter Distribution: Melt the butter completely and drizzle in a slow, circular motion to cover all areas of the cake mix.
Avoid Overbaking: The cake continues to set as it cools. If the top is golden and edges are bubbling slightly, it’s likely done—even if the center looks soft.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigeration firms up the cheesecake layer and improves sliceability.
Let It Rest After Baking: Cutting too soon can cause the layers to slide or collapse.

Variations and Customizations: Make It Your Own

One of the joys of this dessert is how easily it can be adapted. Here are some creative twists to personalize your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

Fruit Variations: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, cherries, or peaches. You can even use mixed berry pie filling for a summer medley.
Flavored Cake Mix: Instead of yellow, try white, French vanilla, or strawberry-flavored cake mix for subtle taste differences.
Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) or granola over the butter layer before baking for added texture.
Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cake mix for warmth and depth.
Lemon Zest Boost: Grate the zest of one lemon into the cheesecake layer for a bright, citrusy contrast to the sweet strawberries.
Almond Joy Version: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the cheesecake mixture and top with sliced almonds before baking.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cream cheese, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cake mix to make a cruelty-free version.
Mini Mason Jar Desserts: Make individual servings by layering ingredients in oven-safe jars and baking for 25–30 minutes.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute regular cake mix with a gluten-free alternative—ensure it’s formulated for baking.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While undeniably delicious, the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a high-calorie, sugar-rich dessert best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: ~380–420
Total Fat: 18–22g (mostly from butter and cream cheese)
Saturated Fat: 10–12g
Cholesterol: 60–80mg
Sodium: 300–400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50–55g
Sugars: 35–40g (naturally occurring and added)
Protein: 4–6g
Fiber: 1–2g

Considerations:

High in Sugar: Between the cake mix, pie filling, and added sugar, this dessert is not suitable for low-sugar or diabetic diets without modification.
Lactose Content: Contains dairy; those with lactose intolerance should consider alternatives.
Portion Control: Serve smaller slices and pair with fresh fruit or Greek yogurt to balance the meal.
Healthier Swaps:
- Use reduced-sugar pie filling.
- Opt for a sugar-free cake mix.
- Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce (though texture will be less crisp).
- Use low-fat cream cheese (but expect a less creamy result).

Despite its indulgence, this dessert provides small amounts of calcium and protein from dairy ingredients. When shared mindfully, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Full Ingredient List

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

2 (8 oz) packages full-fat cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
1 cup fresh or frozen sliced strawberries
1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Optional Garnishes:

Whipped cream
Vanilla ice cream
Fresh strawberry slices
Chocolate shavings
Mint leaves (for presentation)

Detailed Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth (~1 minute).
Add sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until well blended and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Scrape bowl as needed.
In the prepared baking dish, spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom.
Gently fold in the fresh or frozen strawberries and spread into a uniform layer.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries. Use a spatula to carefully spread it flat, covering the fruit completely.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer—do not stir.
Melt the butter and slowly drizzle it over the cake mix. Use a knife to lightly poke a few holes and help butter soak in slightly.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a slight jiggle is okay).
Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours before slicing for cleaner cuts and enhanced texture.
Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the cake a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate unbaked. Bake just before serving—or bake it fully, chill, and reheat slightly before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
A: Yes. Once cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q: Why did my cake turn out soggy?
A: This could happen if too much liquid was released from the strawberries or if the cake wasn’t baked long enough. Make sure to use thick pie filling and bake until the top is firm and golden.

Q: Can I use a different size pan?
A: While a 9×13-inch pan is ideal, you can use an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan for a thicker cake. Adjust baking time accordingly—check after 50 minutes.

Q: Is it necessary to chill before serving?
A: Highly recommended. Chilling sets the cheesecake layer and improves the overall texture and flavor contrast.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Spray the insert, layer as directed, and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours until set. Let cool slightly before serving.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: You can reduce sugar in the cheesecake layer to ⅓ cup, but note that the cake mix and pie filling already contain significant sugar. For a truly low-sugar version, use sugar-free alternatives.

Summary

The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a heavenly fusion of creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and buttery cake—all layered and baked to effortless perfection. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort dessert for any occasion.