Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

I’ll never forget the first time I had a dump cake at a friend’s gathering. It was so easy to make, yet so delicious! The idea of “dumping” the ingredients into a pan and having it magically turn into a cake intrigued me. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of cheesecake in a dessert that couldn’t be simpler to make. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, this recipe has become a staple in my dessert collection.

This dessert is perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time but still craving something homemade and indulgent. The combination of juicy strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and golden cake topping is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Why This Recipe is Special

What makes this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake so special is its simplicity and versatility. You literally dump the ingredients into the pan, and the magic happens in the oven. The result is a cake that’s both creamy and fruity, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily swap out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or peaches, making it a go-to dessert for any season or occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. It’s perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Strawberries
Fresh or frozen strawberries form the fruity base of this dump cake, adding a burst of sweetness and color. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a nutritious addition to this dessert.

Strawberry Pie Filling
Strawberry pie filling enhances the flavor of the fresh strawberries, making the cake even more deliciously fruity. If you want to change things up, feel free to use blueberry or cherry pie filling instead.

Cream Cheese
The cream cheese layer adds a rich, tangy flavor, giving the dessert a cheesecake-like texture. It’s key to the unique texture of this dump cake, providing a creamy balance to the fruit.

Sugar
Sugar sweetens the cream cheese layer and enhances the overall flavor of the cake. You can adjust the amount based on your preference or use alternatives like honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor, adding warmth and depth. You can substitute this with almond extract or even lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Yellow Cake Mix
The yellow cake mix serves as the base of the topping, transforming into a soft, golden-brown crust as it bakes. You could experiment with other cake mixes, such as white or butter cake, for variations.

Unsalted Butter
Melted butter is drizzled over the dry cake mix, ensuring that it bakes into a rich, golden topping. For a lighter version, you can use margarine or coconut oil.

Whipped Cream (optional)
For an extra indulgent touch, top the cake with whipped cream. It adds a creamy finish that complements the richness of the cheesecake layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2
Spread the fresh or frozen strawberries evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan. Pour the strawberry pie filling over the strawberries, distributing it evenly.

Step 3
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberry layer. Don’t worry about spreading it evenly; it will melt into the cake as it bakes.

Step 4
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture. Do not mix. Just spread it out as evenly as possible.

Step 5
Drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Again, don’t mix—let the butter soak into the cake mix while baking.

Step 6
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cake should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 7
Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, serve with whipped cream or fresh strawberries on top.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t Stir: One of the keys to a successful dump cake is not stirring the ingredients. Let the layers naturally form while baking for the best texture.
• Oven Variations: Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary. If the top gets too brown before the cake is fully baked, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
• Customize the Fruit: Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings or fresh fruit. Blueberries, peaches, or even mixed berries would work well.
• Storage: Leftovers can be covered and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick snack.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of fresh berries. It also pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

For a more indulgent touch, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top. You can even add a few crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake-inspired crust.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and simple. Its easy preparation and versatile flavor options make it a go-to recipe for beginner cooks looking to make a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort. I hope you try it out and enjoy it as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out or if you experimented with different fruits or flavors—leave a comment below and share your experience.

FAQ About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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