Desserts

How to Make the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in 5 Steps

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: 5-Ingredient Dessert in 30 Minutes!

Introduction

Craving a luscious dessert but short on time? This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your answer! With just five simple ingredients and 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, fruity, and indulgent treat that tastes like a classic cheesecake—without the fuss. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight cravings, or impressing guests, this no-fuss recipe combines juicy strawberries, rich cream cheese, and a golden cake topping for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this dump cake delivers cheesecake flavor with minimal effort. Dive in and discover why it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients List
Timing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Nutritional Information
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Serving Suggestions
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
9. Storing Tips for the Recipe
Conclusion
FAQs

Ingredients List

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is as easy as it gets—just 5 simple ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix (or yellow cake mix for a milder flavor)
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for topping)

Pro Tip: For a richer cheesecake flavor, swap the strawberry cake mix with a vanilla or cream cheese-infused cake mix.

Timing

This dessert comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute cravings or impromptu gatherings!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Craving more quick desserts? Try our 5-ingredient No-Bake Peach Cheesecake next!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Pie Filling

Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. For extra texture, swirl in a spoonful of freshly chopped strawberries.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

Scatter the softened cream cheese cubes over the pie filling. Don’t worry about perfect spacing—they’ll melt into gooey pockets!

Step 4: Sprinkle Cake Mix

Evenly pour the dry cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Press gently to cover gaps, but avoid stirring.

Step 5: Drizzle with Butter

Slowly pour the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring full coverage. For a crunchier top, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs now.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Pair with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for balance!

Nutritional Information

This strawberry cheesecake dump cake is a decadent treat, but it’s helpful to know its nutritional breakdown. A single serving (1/12th of the cake) contains approximately:

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g (8g saturated)
Sugar: 28g

For a lighter twist, check out our Greek yogurt cake recipe, which uses healthier ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Love this strawberry cheesecake dump cake but want a healthier version? Try these easy swaps:

Sugar-Free Cake Mix: Opt for a low-sugar or keto-friendly cake mix to reduce carbs.
Greek Yogurt: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for added protein and less fat.
Fresh Strawberries: Skip canned pie filling and use fresh strawberries sweetened with a touch of honey.
Whole-Grain Crust: Use whole-grain or almond flour for a fiber boost.

For another guilt-free dessert, try our strawberry rhubarb crisp, sweetened naturally with maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your strawberry cheesecake dump cake with these serving ideas:

Whipped Cream: Top with homemade whipped cream or coconut cream for extra indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Garnish with sliced strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
Mint Leaves: Add a refreshing touch with a few mint leaves.

Pair it with our strawberry parfait for a delightful dessert spread!

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is simple, but even small errors can affect texture or flavor. Here’s what to watch for:

Overmixing the Batter

Dump cakes rely on a rustic texture. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and crumbly. Gently fold ingredients until just combined.

Using Cold Cream Cheese

Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly, leaving lumps. Let it soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.

Skipping the Pan Lining

This dessert is sticky! Always line your baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick spray to prevent messy removal.

Overbaking

The cake should be golden with a slightly gooey center. Overbaking dries it out—check at 25 minutes.

Wrong Strawberry Consistency

Fresh strawberries release too much water. Opt for thicker preserves or macerated berries (tossed with sugar) for better texture.

Pro Tip: For a flawless finish, layer ingredients evenly. Uneven distribution can cause undercooked spots. Need more dessert hacks? Try our creamy cake recipe for foolproof techniques.

9. Storing Tips for the Recipe

Keep your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fresh and delicious with these storage methods:

Room Temperature (Short-Term)

Cover with foil or a cake dome for up to 2 days. Ideal if you prefer a softer texture.

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days. The cheesecake layer firms up, making slices neater. Reheat briefly for a warm serving.

Freezing

Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reviving Leftovers

Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for a refresh.

Pairing Idea: Serve with our strawberry parfait for a berry-filled feast. For longer-lasting desserts, explore our no-bake peach cheesecake guide.

Conclusion

There you have it—a fuss-free, decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that’s ready in just 30 minutes! This dessert is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or whenever you crave something sweet without the hassle. With only five ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a game-changer for dessert lovers.

From the creamy cheesecake layer to the juicy strawberries and golden cake topping, every bite delivers a burst of flavor. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or experiment with new twists. If you loved this recipe, try our No-Bake Peach Cheesecake or Strawberry Parfait Dessert for more quick treats!

Got feedback or creative variations? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear how your dump cake turned out!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well—just thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy cake. For extra flavor, toss them in a teaspoon of cornstarch before layering.

2. How do I make a gluten-free version?

Swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free alternative, and ensure your cheesecake filling is gluten-free. Check out our Greek Yogurt Cake for more gluten-free inspiration!

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the cake but refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture. Leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for 3 days (if they last that long!).