When it comes to desserts that are as easy as they are indulgent, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake hits the nail on the head. The beauty of this dessert is that it combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity goodness of strawberries, all topped with a golden cake crust. What’s even better? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make it happen. This dump cake comes together with minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, yet it’s absolutely irresistible.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert or something to bring to a potluck, this strawberry cheesecake dump cake is the answer. It’s comforting, delicious, and everyone will ask for the recipe! Plus, it has the versatility to be adapted with different fruit fillings, so you can enjoy it all year round. Let’s dive in and get started on making this simple, yet show-stopping dessert.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make this dump cake:
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
These ingredients are basic, and you likely already have most of them in your pantry or fridge. The combination of sweet strawberry filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping is guaranteed to deliver a flavor-packed dessert that will leave you craving more.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Now, let’s get into the fun part! This recipe is incredibly easy, but here are the steps to ensure you make it perfectly every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure your dump cake gets golden and bubbly without burning. Next, prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with nonstick cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This will prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Spread the Strawberry Pie Filling
Once your dish is ready, spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. The fruit filling forms the sweet base of this dessert, so take your time to ensure it’s spread out nicely. It will bubble and bake up beautifully under the other layers, creating a wonderful combination of textures and flavors.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture together until it’s smooth and creamy. The cream cheese adds a luscious richness to this dessert, and the sugar balances out the tanginess of the cream cheese with a touch of sweetness. Once your mixture is smooth, scoop out spoonfuls and dollop them evenly over the strawberry pie filling. You don’t have to be perfect about spreading it—some parts will be thicker, some will be thinner, but that’s okay! The natural swirls in the cream cheese layer will look beautiful when the cake bakes.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Now it’s time for the cake mix. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. This step is all about making sure the cake mix covers as much of the surface as possible, but it doesn’t have to be perfect. You’ll get little pockets of cake mix that will bake into crispy, golden areas that create that classic dump cake texture. Just be sure the mixture is spread evenly so it bakes properly.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Next, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. The butter will soak into the cake mix as it bakes, creating a deliciously crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberry filling. The butter helps the cake mix bake up golden and delicious, so don’t skip this step. Make sure you cover the cake mix as much as possible for that perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The cake mix should form a crispy, crunchy top, while the strawberry and cheesecake layers melt together underneath. The smell will be absolutely heavenly as it bakes, so be prepared to wait eagerly by the oven!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once your dump cake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the layers time to set, and it will be easier to serve. If you’d like, garnish with fresh strawberries on top for a burst of color and extra flavor. This dessert is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
And just like that, you’ve got a simple yet impressive dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet strawberry filling, creamy cheesecake, and golden cake topping is an irresistible treat that you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Customize and Perfect Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Now that you’ve got the basic recipe down, let’s dive into some ways you can customize this strawberry cheesecake dump cake and make it even more your own. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but there’s always room for creative variations that make it even more exciting. Whether you’re looking for a flavor twist or a way to make the cake a little richer, these tips and tricks will help you elevate your dessert game.
Variations for Different Flavors
While strawberry pie filling is the star of this cake, you can easily switch things up and use other fruit fillings. For example, blueberry, peach, or cherry pie filling would work wonderfully in place of strawberries. Each fruit will bring its own unique flavor profile, giving you endless options for variety.
Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Swap out the strawberry filling for blueberry pie filling. The tartness of blueberries pairs perfectly with the rich cream cheese layer.
Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake: Peach filling can offer a sweeter, more tropical vibe. You could even add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture to complement the peach flavor.
Mixed Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake: For a twist, mix different berry pie fillings, like raspberry, blackberry, and strawberry. This adds a fun mix of flavors and colors to the dessert.
Feel free to get creative and use whatever fruit filling you love best. The key is to choose a fruit that has a similar texture to strawberry pie filling, so it will bake in the same way and create that luscious base.
How to Make a Thicker Cheesecake Layer
One of the best things about cheesecake is the creaminess, and if you love that rich layer, you can easily make it thicker. Simply double the amount of cream cheese mixture. Instead of using just one package (8 oz), use two packages (16 oz) of cream cheese, keeping the rest of the ingredients the same. This will create a thicker, more indulgent cheesecake layer that perfectly complements the fruit filling.
You can also add a little bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cream cheese mixture to give it an extra creamy texture and a slight tang. This is an easy way to make the cheesecake part even more decadent!
Tips for the Best Texture and Flavor
Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures that the cream cheese blends smoothly into the sugar and vanilla, creating a lump-free mixture. Cold cream cheese can be difficult to blend and might leave lumps in the filling.
Don’t skip the butter: The melted butter is crucial for creating the golden, crispy topping that’s a signature of dump cakes. Drizzling it evenly ensures that the cake mix bakes into a perfectly crisp layer.
Try adding spices: If you want to enhance the flavor of the cake mix, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry cake mix before sprinkling it over the cheesecake and fruit layers. A little cinnamon pairs wonderfully with fruit-based desserts and adds a cozy, comforting element to the cake.
Consider adding nuts: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before drizzling the butter. The nuts will toast slightly during baking, adding texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
As if this dump cake weren’t indulgent enough, there are a few ways to take it to the next level. The soft, creamy layers and the golden, crispy top make it a perfect candidate for some fun toppings and pairings.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic and perfect match for this warm, gooey dessert. The cold ice cream melts into the cake, creating a creamy, dreamy combination.
Whipped Cream: Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the richness of the dump cake. It’s simple, but it elevates the overall dessert.
Chocolate Shavings: For a chocolate twist, sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the top. The richness of the chocolate complements the sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some caramel sauce on top of each serving adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery cake topping.
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, you can even serve this cake with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine, like Moscato or Riesling, to enhance the flavors even further.
Making This Dessert Ahead of Time
One of the best things about this strawberry cheesecake dump cake is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it the next day. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake according to the instructions.
If you’re bringing this to a gathering or potluck, you can prepare it in advance and bake it just before you leave. This way, you’ll have a warm, delicious dessert to share, and it’ll be the hit of the party.
Storing Leftovers
While it’s unlikely there will be leftovers with this crowd-pleasing dessert, if there are, don’t worry! This strawberry cheesecake dump cake keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can eat it cold straight from the fridge or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.
If you decide to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and then foil. You can freeze it for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Here are some common questions I get about this strawberry cheesecake dump cake recipe, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, these tips will ensure your dump cake turns out perfectly every time.
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works wonderfully for this recipe, you can experiment with other cake mixes to change the flavor profile. A white cake mix, butter cake mix, or even a spice cake mix would also work well. Just keep in mind that each mix might bring a slightly different flavor, so choose one that pairs best with your fruit filling.
2. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry pie filling?
You can use fresh strawberries, but I recommend using them with a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness of the pie filling. You’ll need about 2-3 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced and mixed with ¼ cup of sugar. Let the strawberries sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices before spreading them in the bottom of the baking dish. Keep in mind, though, that using fresh fruit will change the texture of the base slightly, and you may need to bake a little longer for the fruit to break down and become bubbly.
3. How can I make this dessert even richer?
If you want a more decadent dessert, consider adding a layer of chocolate chips or crushed graham crackers on top of the cheesecake layer before adding the cake mix. The chocolate will melt into the filling, adding a rich, gooey element to the cake. Crushed graham crackers will give it a cheesecake crust-like texture and enhance the flavor.
4. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Simply use a 12×18-inch baking dish instead of the 9×13-inch dish and double all the ingredients accordingly. You may need to bake it for a little longer, so keep an eye on it and check for that golden brown topping and bubbly filling before removing it from the oven.
5. How do I prevent the cake mix from being too dry on top?
To avoid the dry cake mix layer, be sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. If you notice that some areas seem too dry after baking, you can use a spoon to gently press down on those areas so the butter soaks in more. The butter is what helps create the golden, crispy topping, so don’t skip that step or skimp on the butter.
6. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dessert gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. Look for a gluten-free yellow cake mix (many brands offer great options) and make sure all the other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The texture will be similar, and you’ll still get that delicious golden topping and creamy cheesecake layer.
7. How long can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, considering how delicious this cake is!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it chilled. This cake also freezes well, so if you want to save some for later, freeze it for up to two months. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping and freezing.
Conclusion: Enjoy This Easy, Delicious Dessert!
There you have it—a foolproof recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, this dessert is simple, versatile, and incredibly delicious. With minimal effort, you can whip up a dessert that feels special and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm, gooey, and absolutely irresistible dessert. Once you try it, I’m sure you’ll want to make it again and again, especially when you see how much everyone loves it!
Have fun making this strawberry cheesecake dump cake, and don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try in the comments. I’d love to hear what creative twists you put on this recipe!
Happy baking!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Description
This strawberry cheesecake dump cake combines the indulgent flavors of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberry pie filling, and a golden cake topping. It’s the perfect dessert when you’re craving something easy to prepare yet wonderfully delicious. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Fresh strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2 Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish, creating a sweet and fruity base.
3 In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. You can gently spread it, but don’t worry about making it perfect; a few swirls will make it even more delightful.
4 Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Make sure the cake mix covers most of the surface.
5 Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the surface as possible for a crispy, golden topping.
6 Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7 Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired. This cake is perfect on its own, or you can enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
This cake can easily be customized by adding different fruit fillings like blueberry or peach for a unique twist. If you prefer a slightly thicker cheesecake layer, you can double the cream cheese mixture.
