Have you ever experienced that moment when a sweet craving strikes, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Well, get ready for a delightful solution—this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! Imagine the ease of a dessert that requires less than 10 ingredients and can be whipped up in just one pan. With a fabulous blend of cream cheese, vanilla, and juicy strawberry pie filling, this dessert is the perfect way to satisfy that sweet tooth without the fuss.
Not only is this cake incredibly simple to prepare, but it’s also a genuine crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, a game night with friends, or just treating yourself, this dessert promises to be the star of the show. The combination of creamy cheesecake layers atop gooey strawberries is a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Are you ready to dive into this easy recipe and surprise your taste buds? Keep scrolling to discover just how simple it is to make this delightful treat!
Why will you love this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Simplicity at Its Best: With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, this dessert makes baking a breeze.
Gooey Goodness: The mix of cream cheese with juicy strawberry filling creates an indulgent treat you can’t resist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether a BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this crowd-pleaser fits right in.
One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a snap—just bake, serve, and enjoy without the hassle!
For additional dessert inspiration, check out these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies that are sure to impress!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Ingredients
• Craft an irresistible dessert with just a few simple ingredients.
For the Cake Base
- White Cake Mix – Provides a fluffy foundation for your dessert; feel free to use a homemade mix if you're feeling adventurous!
- Salted Butter – Used to add moisture and richness; unsalted can be substituted—just adjust the salt in the recipe.
For the Fruit Layer
- Strawberry Pie Filling – Adds a sweet, fruity layer that complements the cake; switch it out for peach or blueberry filling for a twist!
For the Creamy Center
- Cream Cheese – Gives that luscious, rich cheesecake flavor; make sure it’s softened to mix effortlessly.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer perfectly; reduce or swap with a sweetener as desired.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract can be used for a unique twist.
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not only delicious but straightforward to assemble, making it the go-to dessert for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to grease a 13"x9" baking dish with some butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake won’t stick, making it easy to serve and enjoy. You want that beautiful golden crust to slide right out without a fuss!
Step 2
Once your dish is ready, open that can of strawberry pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. The vibrant red of the strawberries should cover the surface generously, creating a juicy foundation for the cake. Make sure to take your time with this step, ensuring an even layer for a beautiful presentation.
Step 3
Next, grab your box of white cake mix and sprinkle half of it evenly over the strawberry layer. Don’t stir; just let it settle into place. This will create a wonderful contrast between the sweet strawberries and the fluffy cake base. Take a moment to make sure the cake mix covers the strawberries fully, providing an excellent texture when baked.
Step 4
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat this mixture until it's smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, dollop this luscious mixture evenly over the cake mix layer in your baking dish. The rich cream cheese will meld beautifully with the other layers as it bakes.
Step 5
Now it’s time to sprinkle the remaining dry cake mix over the dollops of cream cheese. Gently pat it down with your hands to ensure that it lays somewhat flat, without mixing the layers. This is crucial as it creates those delightful textures once your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is finished baking.
Step 6
Melt your salted butter and then pour it evenly over the top layer of the cake mix. This drizzle helps the cake form a golden crust while it bakes. Take care to cover as much of the surface as possible without stirring, as this allows the flavors to meld together while the cake is in the oven.
Step 7
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, giving you a delightful aroma to tantalize your taste buds. The edges should appear slightly crispy, which complements the gooey filling perfectly.
Step 8
When the baking time is up, allow your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries on top—it's an indulgent dessert that will surely impress your guests and leave them coming back for more!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious flavors and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.
Texture Tip: Note that while freezing can change the texture slightly, the flavors will still delight your taste buds when served!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Looking to build the perfect meal around this outstanding treat? You'll want sides that complement its sweet, creamy vibe.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the cake's richness, creating a heavenly texture pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream melts deliciously over the warm cake, bridging flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries brightens the dish, adding fresh tartness that balances the sweet cake perfectly.
Imagine creating a delightful dessert table with your warm Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake at the center, complemented by these fresh flavors.
- Mint Leaves: Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish adds an aromatic touch that brightens each bite and elevates the presentation.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate drizzle adds a rich contrast, enhancing the dessert’s elegance and making it even more indulgent.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top introduces a zesty twist, cutting through the sweetness while refreshing the palate.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Variations
Customize this delightful dessert to match your tastes, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut oil for a luscious, guilt-free option that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
- Fruit Filling Swap: Switch strawberry pie filling for blueberry, peach, or even mixed berry for a refreshing twist! The juicy layers will vary but still delight.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top before serving for a rich, decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, on top before baking for added texture and a delightful crunch!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with dietary restrictions. It’ll still be just as delicious!
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the white cake mix to introduce warm, aromatic flavors that enhance the overall experience.
- Add Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese layer for a subtle kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
- Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cream cheese mixture for a fresh burst of citrus that will brighten the flavors!
Feel free to experiment and find your perfect version of this joyful dessert!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the ingredients without mixing. This ensures the cake mixes itself while baking, achieving that perfect texture.
- Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Using a pre-prepared baking dish helps prevent sticking and sogginess. Be generous when spreading the strawberry layer.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes for easier slicing.
- Serving Suggestion: Enhance the dessert by topping with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries for a fresh burst of flavor alongside the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving to maintain the gooey texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the strawberry layer and cream cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply spread the strawberry pie filling in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Prepare the cream cheese mixture but wait to add the cake mix and melted butter until you're ready to bake. This way, you maintain the dish's delightful texture. When it's time to bake, sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cream cheese dollops, drizzle with melted butter, and bake for 50-55 minutes, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dessert with minimal fuss!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
Absolutely! One of the biggest mistakes is mixing the ingredients together. When making a dump cake, you should layer the ingredients without stirring them. This allows the cake to self-mix as it bakes, which is key for achieving that delicious, gooey texture throughout.
How long to bake strawberry cheesecake dump cake?
Bake your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for 50-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should look slightly crispy, and the delightful aroma will be hard to resist!
Can you use fresh strawberries in a dump cake?
Very! While fresh strawberries can be substituted for strawberry pie filling, they will require some extra preparation. You'll need to slice and macerate them with sugar to create a syrup-like consistency. This helps ensure they don’t dry out during baking. It’s a fresh twist that adds a burst of natural flavor!
What is the difference between a dump cake and a cobbler with cake mix?
Great question! A dump cake is typically made by layering fruits and a cake mix without mixing, allowing the cake mix to form a crust-like topping as it bakes. In contrast, a cobbler usually features a thicker batter that is spooned or dropped over the fruit, resulting in a more traditional biscuit-like topping. Both are delicious, but texture and preparation methods set them apart.
Does a dump cake need to be refrigerated after baking?
Absolutely! It’s best to store the leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in the fridge if you plan to keep it for more than a few hours after baking. Place it in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and moisture.
How to elevate a dump cake?
To make your dump cake even more delightful, consider adding fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or blueberries on top before serving, or drizzle it with a homemade vanilla glaze. You can also mix in some crushed nuts or top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. The more the merrier when it comes to enhancing this simple dessert!
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Your New Favorite Dessert
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13"x9" baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the white cake mix evenly over the strawberry layer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract; beat until smooth and creamy, then dollop over the cake mix layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining dry cake mix over the cream cheese dollops, patting it down gently.
- Melt the salted butter and pour it evenly over the top layer of the cake mix.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing; serve warm with whipped cream or fresh strawberries.
Nutrition
Notes
- Layering is key to achieving the perfect texture.
- Use a pre-prepared baking dish to avoid sogginess.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Top with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for an enhanced flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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