introduction
I was juggling school drop-offs, laundry, and a last-minute volleyball snack request when my daughter asked for something sweet that wasn’t just cookies. I needed a dessert that came together fast and still felt special. This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fit the bill — it’s simple, forgiving, and the kids loved the creamy layer with fresh strawberries on top. I often lean on quick cakes like an easy Butterfinger cake recipe when time is tight, and this one gives the same comfort with less fuss. It bakes while I tidy the kitchen and the warm scent fills the house. The result looks homemade and tastes like I spent more time on it than I really did.
why make this recipe
This dump cake checks a lot of boxes for busy families. You can assemble it in minutes with basic pantry items and fresh strawberries. The cream cheese layer gives a rich, cheesecake feel without making a full cheesecake. It bakes in one dish so you use fewer bowls and spend less time washing up. Kids enjoy the sweet strawberry topping and parents like that it stores well for a quick breakfast or school snack the next day. Because it uses a boxed cake mix, it stays predictable in texture and timing — a real everyday lifesaver when you want a special dessert without a lot of steps.
how to make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Making this cake is all about simple layers and even baking. First, soften the cream cheese and mix it with sugar and vanilla until it’s smooth and spreadable. In another bowl, combine the cake mix with milk and melted butter to make a loose batter. You’ll spread half the batter in a greased dish, scatter sliced strawberries over it, then dollop and spread the cream cheese mixture. Finish by topping with the remaining batter and more strawberries. The cake bakes until golden and set. Let it rest briefly so the cheese layer firms up a bit before serving. If you want a reminder of another easy dump-style dessert for cooler months, check a straightforward pumpkin dump cake recipe for ideas you can adapt.
Ingredients :
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced, 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1 box (15 ounces) yellow cake mix, ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions :
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
<, p id=”instruction-step-2″>2. Grease a baking dish., p id=”instruction-step-3″>3. Mix cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth., p id=”instruction-step-4″>4. In another bowl, combine cake mix, milk, and melted butter until combined., p id=”instruction-step-5″>5. Layer half of the batter in the baking dish, followed by strawberries and cream cheese mixture. Top with remaining batter and strawberries.
, p id=”instruction-step-6″>6. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
how to serve Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs beautifully with the warm berries and creamy cheesecake layer. For a lighter touch, dust with powdered sugar and add a few fresh mint leaves. Cut into squares and plate with a fork for casual family desserts. If you’re serving to kids, add a small bowl of extra sliced strawberries so they can top their piece just how they like it.
how to store Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Cool the cake completely before storing. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To freeze, slice and wrap pieces individually in plastic, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm briefly in the oven or microwave if you prefer it cozy and soft again.
tips to make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Use room-temperature cream cheese so it mixes smooth with the sugar and vanilla. If your strawberries are very juicy, pat them dry so the cake doesn’t get too wet. Spread the batter as evenly as you can — it will bake more consistently that way. Check the cake at 35 minutes; if the top browns too fast, tent with foil. Let the cake rest at least 10 minutes after baking so the cheesecake layer firms enough to slice cleanly. For more ideas on cheesecake textures and tricks, take a look at this simple creme brulee cheesecake recipe to see how different methods affect the filling.
variation (if any)
Swap strawberries for mixed berries like raspberries and blueberries for a different flavor profile. Use a white or strawberry-flavored cake mix for a sweeter, fruit-forward result. For a citrus lift, add one teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the granulated sugar to 1/3 cup in the cream cheese layer. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix with the same measurements.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain frozen strawberries well before using. If they are still very watery, pat them dry to prevent a soggy cake.
Q: Do I have to use yellow cake mix?
A: No. You can use white, strawberry, or even funfetti for a kid-friendly twist. Keep the same amount and follow the same steps.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The top should be golden brown and the edges set. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out mostly clean, though the cream cheese layer will be moist.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble it and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. If you need to do it the night before, cover well and bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q: Can I cut this into single-serving portions for a potluck?
A: Yes. Bake in a 9×13 for thicker bars or a smaller dish for taller slices. Let cool, then slice and transport in a covered dish or on a tray with parchment.
Conclusion
For another take on a strawberry cheesecake dump cake with similar comfort and simple steps, see Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Coco and Ash.
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish.
- Mix cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine cake mix, milk, and melted butter until combined.
- Layer half of the batter in the baking dish, followed by strawberries and cream cheese mixture. Top with remaining batter and strawberries.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the cake rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.