Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of cheesecake with the deliciousness of strawberries, all in a simple dumpling style. This dessert is a breeze to prepare, making it an excellent option for both novice and experienced bakers. With layers of sweet strawberry filling, creamy whipped cream cheese, and a buttery cake topping, it’s no wonder this cake has become a favorite in many households. You will love how this easy-to-make dessert transforms fresh strawberries and cream cheese into a comforting and satisfying treat.
Why We Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a beloved recipe for several reasons. First, the simplicity of the cooking method makes it accessible for everyone. You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up this delicious dessert. The layers meld together beautifully during baking, creating a rich and creamy texture that is truly enticing. It’s the perfect dessert to serve at gatherings, holiday parties, or just as a sweet treat for your family.
Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste, whether you prefer it warm from the oven or chilled in the refrigerator. Plus, the combination of sweet strawberries and the tartness from the cream cheese creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this cake earns rave reviews and is sure to be a hit every time.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
To craft this delectable Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans strawberry pie filling (21 oz each)
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix
- 1 stick butter, melted
- Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall taste and texture of the cake. The strawberry pie filling provides that fruity sweetness, while the whipped cream cheese adds creamy richness, making each bite an enjoyable experience.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Directions
Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is as simple as it is rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this irresistibly delicious dessert:
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your cake will bake evenly.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and either grease it with butter or spray it with a nonstick baking spray. This step will help prevent your cake from sticking to the dish.
Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling: Open the two cans of strawberry pie filling and pour them into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth layer.
Add Cream Cheese Dollops: Take the whipped cream cheese and add dollops evenly across the strawberry filling. This will create delightful pockets of creaminess throughout the cake.
Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the stick of butter. Be careful not to overheat it; you want it just melted, not boiling.
Mix the Cake Ingredients: Stir the box of cake mix into the melted butter using a spatula or spoon. Mix until everything is combined and crumbly. You don’t want it to be a smooth batter; a crumbly mixture is perfect for this cake.
Spread the Cake Mixture: Pour the cake mix and butter mixture over the dollops of cream cheese. Use your spatula to spread it evenly over the top.
Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a golden brown color and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the cake layer.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serving it warm enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.
Garnish and Enjoy: Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm, with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with sliced fresh strawberries.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
When it comes to serving your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, the options are endless! It is perfect for any gathering or as a comforting evening dessert. Serve it warm directly from the oven for a cozy vibe, or allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing chilled dessert.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it with a topping bar. Prepare sides of fresh whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, and perhaps even some chocolate sauce. Guests can customize their servings according to their preferences, making it a fun interactive experience.
If you want to add a touch of elegance, serve your portions in individual bowls topped with fresh strawberries and a sprig of mint. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of freshness to every bite. Either way, this delightful cake is sure to impress!
Expert Tips: Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time:
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality strawberry pie filling and fresh cream cheese for the best flavor. The better the ingredients, the better your cake will taste.
Don’t Overmix: When mixing the cake mix with melted butter, be sure to keep it crumbly. Overmixing can result in a denser texture, which is not what you want for this dessert.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Serve with Toppings: Garnishing with fresh strawberries and whipped cream elevates the dish, enhancing both its flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy Warm or Cold: Whether you enjoy it warm or after it’s chilled in the fridge, this cake remains delicious. Experiment with both to find your favorite way to enjoy it!
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Storing your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake properly ensures that it maintains its delicious flavor and texture for as long as possible. If you have leftover cake, allow it to cool completely before storing.
To store, cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to four days. This will allow the flavors to meld and enhance the taste. If you want to enjoy it at a later date, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently if desired.
Variation of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
While the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a classic on its own, you can easily switch things up and make it your own. Consider some of these variations:
Berry Medley: Instead of using just strawberry pie filling, try a mix of different berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This fruity twist will add complex flavors and colors.
Lemon Zest: For a refreshing citrus flavor, incorporate some lemon zest into the cream cheese or sprinkle some lemon zest over the top of the cake before serving.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the top of the cake before serving can add an extra layer of decadence. This combination of chocolate and strawberry is always a crowd-pleaser.
Nut Topping: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. This will add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Each variation opens up new possibilities, making your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake even more exciting to explore!
FAQ About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for strawberry pie filling for convenience and sweet flavor, you can certainly use fresh strawberries. Just make sure to add sugar to your fresh strawberries to create some syrup that will infuse the flavor into the cake.
How can I make it gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this dessert, simply substitute regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the pie filling and cream cheese, are gluten-free as well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake in advance! You can assemble it and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Keep in mind that it may take a couple of extra minutes to bake if it is cold from the fridge.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Keep an eye on the color of the top. It should be golden brown, and you can use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the cake, and if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cans strawberry pie filling (21 oz each)
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix
- 1 stick butter melted
- Fresh strawberries for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add dollops of whipped cream cheese evenly over the strawberry filling.
- Melt the butter and mix it with the cake mix until crumbly; do not overmix.
- Spread the cake mixture over the cream cheese dollops.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.
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