Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake brings the perfect balance of sweet, fruity strawberries and creamy cheesecake in a simple, no-fuss dessert. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, this easy-to-make dessert will quickly become a favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dessert is perfect for all occasions. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing treat!
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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is for you. It combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cheesecake, all baked into a simple cake. What makes it even better is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a baking expert to get great results — just dump the ingredients in the pan, and let the oven work its magic.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Before you start baking, make sure to gather the following ingredients:
• Fresh or frozen strawberries: Provide the base of the fruity flavor in this cake.
• Strawberry pie filling: Adds extra sweetness and a thick texture to the cake.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): Gives the cheesecake flavor that makes this recipe special.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the cream cheese layer.
• Yellow cake mix: The key ingredient that creates the cake portion of the dump cake.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup): Melts over the top to form a golden, crunchy crust.
• Whipped cream (optional): For topping and extra creaminess.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you need alternatives for specific ingredients, here are some suggestions:
• Frozen berries: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen berries work just as well and still create a delicious base.
• Cream cheese substitute: For a dairy-free version, you can use a plant-based cream cheese.
• Sugar-free options: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol if you’re looking for a lower sugar version of this dessert.
• Other cake mixes: Try a chocolate or spice cake mix for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Layer the strawberries: Spread the fresh or frozen strawberries evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Pour the strawberry pie filling on top to create a sweet, fruity base.
- Make the cheesecake layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Spoon this mixture over the strawberries in dollops; it doesn’t need to be spread evenly.
- Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer. Do not stir.
- Pour the butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Again, no stirring necessary — let the butter sit on top.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream for an added touch of sweetness.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Dump Cake
• Use ripe strawberries: The fresher and sweeter the strawberries, the better the flavor.
• Don’t skip the cream cheese: It adds that essential cheesecake taste that makes this dessert stand out.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. Ovens vary, and the cake can bake faster or slower than the recommended time.
• Don’t stir the ingredients: The beauty of dump cake is that you don’t have to mix everything. Let the cake mix and butter bake on top for a crunchy, golden crust.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Here are some creative ways to make this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake even more delightful:
• With whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream complements the rich, creamy layers.
• Ice cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Fresh berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries for an extra burst of freshness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Notes
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices for up to two months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
Fun Variations to Try
Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun with this recipe. Here are a few ideas:
• Chocolate strawberry dump cake: Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips for a rich, chocolaty twist.
• Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake mix before baking for a crunchy topping.
• Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce once the cake has cooled for an extra decadent touch.
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a versatile, easy-to-make dessert that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s sure to be a hit every time.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for those seeking simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With its perfect combination of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and a golden, buttery crust, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you are preparing it for a special event or just want to treat yourself, this dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious. With minimal effort and maximum impact, it’s the perfect addition to your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries work perfectly in this recipe! If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Simply spread them directly into the pan and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with another flavor?
Absolutely! You can use a chocolate cake mix for a chocolate-strawberry twist or even a spice cake mix for a cozy, autumnal variation. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
How do I store leftovers of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store them in the freezer for up to two months.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake a day ahead. Just bake, let it cool, cover, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, you can either serve it chilled or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.
More Relevant Recipes
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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all baked into a simple, no-fuss dessert. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Spread the fresh or frozen strawberries evenly at the bottom of the pan.
- Pour the strawberry pie filling over the strawberries.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then drop spoonfuls over the strawberry layer.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer without stirring.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, without stirring.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving and top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Do not skip the cream cheese layer, as it gives the cake its cheesecake flavor.
- For a different flavor, try using chocolate or spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to two months.
- If you use frozen strawberries, there’s no need to thaw them before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the recipe)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg