Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and cheesecake, especially when it all comes together in a delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to summer picnics. It offers a heavenly blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry flavor, all layered under a buttery cake topping. Trust me; every bite is a little piece of heaven.
Why Make This Recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily found at any grocery store.
Imagine walking into a room filled with friends and family, the air laden with the sweet, inviting aroma of strawberries and baked cake. This dessert is a showstopper, but it feels cozy enough for any casual night in. Don’t just take my word for it:
“This dump cake was a hit at our barbecue! Everyone loved it and asked for seconds. It was so easy to make!” – Jamie R.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Preparing this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is effortless, making it an ideal choice for bakers of all levels. Here’s a quick overview:
- You’ll start by preheating the oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).
- Next, layer a luscious mixture of strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries in a greased baking dish.
- Then, you’ll create a creamy cheesecake layer using softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla.
- Top it all with a box of cake mix and drizzle melted butter. Just pop it in the oven, and voila!
This straightforward method explains why dump cakes have become a favorite among home cooks.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients for a divine Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
- 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 oz) box vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Feel free to use fresh strawberries for an added burst of flavor. The cream cheese can be substituted with a vegan alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the pie filling.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberries.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, making sure to cover as much as possible.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. For best flavor, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
How to Serve (Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake)
Best ways to enjoy it
This delicious dessert can be served in multiple ways! A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing. The warm cake contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that elevates the dish even further. You can also top slices with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant, colorful presentation—an easy way to impress your guests!
How to Store
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. Just be cautious not to overheat it, as you’ll want to maintain that incredible creamy texture.
Tips to Make
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy blending. If it’s too cold, it might clump.
- Don’t skip the step of greasing your baking dish; this will ensure every slice comes out easily.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. It enhances the cheesecake notes beautifully.
Variations
Creative twists
Looking to spice things up? Why not try a chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a decadent chocolate strawberry cheesecake dump cake? You can also swap the strawberry pie filling for cherries or blueberries for different fruity flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can incorporate nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the cake mix for added texture. This allows everyone to customize their dessert experience.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. - How long does it take to prepare this dump cake?
You can get it ready in about 15-20 minutes, then it bakes for around 45-50 minutes. - Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dump cake gluten-free.
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