Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that combines the classic flavors of strawberries and cheesecake in a simple dump-and-bake format. This dessert is perfect for when you need a sweet treat but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With layers of fresh strawberry flavor, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping, this dessert is sure to please. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Layer the Pie Filling: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling, spreading it gently to create an even layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer. Make sure the entire surface is covered.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible, but don’t worry if some spots are left uncovered—this will create a nice texture after baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the cake mix should be fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Butter Distribution: For the best texture, try to pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Using a spoon to spread it can help ensure even coverage.
- Cream Cheese Softening: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Pie Filling Options: While this recipe uses strawberry pie filling, you can substitute with other flavors like cherry or blueberry for a different twist.
Variations
- Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture and use a lemon cake mix instead of yellow for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a delicious chocolate and strawberry combination.
- Nutty Topping: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before adding the melted butter for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair a warm slice of the dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and indulgent dessert.
- Fresh Strawberries: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves to add a touch of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dump cake a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat individual servings in the microwave if desired.
How Do I Store Leftover Dump Cake?
Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or enjoy it cold.
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Pie Filling?
For this recipe, strawberry pie filling works best for the texture and sweetness. However, you could use fresh strawberries combined with sugar and cornstarch to create a similar filling.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! You can use white, vanilla, or even spice cake mix for a different flavor profile. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
How Do I Prevent the Cake Mix from Being Too Dry?
Make sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. The butter is essential for ensuring that the cake mix bakes properly and doesn’t stay dry.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this cake combines the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the buttery goodness of cake mix. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just a simple treat at home, this dump cake is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy this effortlessly delightful dessert!
Happy Baking!
