Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of cheesecake in a simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. I remember the first time I tried dump cake at a friend’s gathering. The ease of preparation caught my attention, and the flavors were so delightful that I had to learn how to make it myself.
This recipe is not just about good flavor but also about the joy of sharing a dessert that everyone loves. You can whip this up for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Let’s get into how to make this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
What is Dump Cake?
Dump cake is a unique dessert that doesn’t require much fuss in the kitchen. You quite literally “dump” the ingredients into a pan, and it magically transforms into a delicious cake. The best part is that you can customize it with different fruits and flavors, making it versatile and fun to make.
Why You Will Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
There are several reasons why this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a hit.
- Simple Preparation: It requires minimal effort and time.
- Delicious Flavor: The pairing of strawberries and cheesecake creates a heavenly taste.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, barbecues, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, young and old, enjoys this dessert.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Before jumping into the process, you need to prepare your ingredients. Having everything in place makes the baking experience smoother. Here is what you will need:
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
- 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)
Gather these ingredients, and you are all set to create a delightful dessert.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Now that everything is ready, let’s walk through the steps of making this delicious cake. It’s straightforward, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This step prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
- Layer the Strawberries: Spread the fresh or frozen strawberries evenly at the bottom of the pan. Pour the strawberry pie filling on top of the strawberries. This creates a sweet, fruity base for your cake.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberry layer. It does not need to be spread out evenly, as it will melt into the cake while baking.
- Add Cake Mix: Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the entire mixture. Do not mix; just let the dry cake mix do its thing.
- Pour the Butter: Lastly, drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Again, do not stir; just let it sit on top.
- Bake: Place your pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let your cake cool slightly before serving. You can top it with whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
Making It Your Own
One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily switch up the fruits to match your preferences. Here are some ideas to experiment with:
- Use blueberries or raspberries along with strawberries for a mixed berry dump cake.
- Substitute with peach pie filling if you are a fan of peaches.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest into the cheesecake layer for some zing.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you have many options to make it even more delightful. Here are some ideas:
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice elevates the dessert.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm cake.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries for added freshness and color.
Storing Leftovers
If you are lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this cake is easy.
- Refrigerator: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze it, slice the cake first. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to two months.
Popular Variations
As a fan of creativity in the kitchen, I love to try different variations with this dump cake.
- Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow and add chocolate chips.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts in the topping for a delightful crunch.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce on top once served for an extra treat.
Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake
To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out perfectly, here are my tips:
- Use ripe and sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Do not skip the cream cheese layer; it adds the cheesecake essence.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and it can bake faster or slower.
I hope you enjoy making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake as much as I do. It’s a wonderful dessert that celebrates the sweet flavors of strawberries and the creamy texture of cheesecake. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or just because, I guarantee it will be a hit.