Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. Imagine layers of sweet, tangy strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery, golden cake mix—all baked together to create a rich, irresistible treat. This dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you need a quick and delicious option without the hassle of intricate baking techniques.
Why You Will Love Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and no complicated steps—just layer, bake, and enjoy.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties or family dinners.
- Customizable: You can switch up the flavors to suit your preferences.
- Rich and Decadent: Combines the best of strawberry, cheesecake, and buttery cake.
Ingredients Notes for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This recipe relies on simple pantry staples to create a delightful dessert.
- Strawberry Pie Filling (21 oz): Provides a sweet and tangy fruit base. You can substitute with cherry or blueberry pie filling for variety.
- Yellow Cake Mix (15.25 oz): The foundation for the buttery, crumbly topping. White or vanilla cake mix works as well.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Adds the classic cheesecake flavor. Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer. You can reduce the amount slightly for a less sweet option.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp): Enhances the cream cheese mixture with a touch of warmth.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Creates a golden, crispy topping. Salted butter can be used if you prefer a slightly salty kick.
- Fresh Strawberries (optional): For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling, spreading gently to cover most of the surface.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, ensuring most of the surface is covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the oven for best results.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Pie Filling: Try cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for a new flavor twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make the dessert suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the top before baking for added texture.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure the butter is melted completely and drizzled evenly to prevent dry spots in the topping.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly after baking; this helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of condensed milk over the cake before serving.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: Always use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor in cream cheese mixtures.
- Martha Stewart: Soften the cream cheese to room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly without lumps.
- Ree Drummond: For an extra decadent touch, mix a tablespoon of cream into the melted butter before drizzling it over the cake mix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a similar consistency.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
3. Do I need to mix the cake mix before adding it?
No, simply sprinkle the dry cake mix over the layers as directed. The butter will moisten it during baking.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine works, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
5. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating your family, this fuss-free recipe is sure to impress!
