Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the sweet flavors of strawberries and the creamy goodness of cheesecake, all topped with a light cake layer. It’s an effortless dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Since it’s made in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this cake is sure to impress family and friends.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled, with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan, you can enjoy your dessert without worrying about a pile of dishes afterward.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of strawberry pie filling and cream cheese creates a heavenly taste that’s hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, gather your tools to ensure an efficient baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch size ensures even baking and easy serving for your delicious dump cake.
- Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when blending ingredients like cream cheese and sugar for a smooth texture.
Ingredients
For this incredible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need the following:
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat together:
1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 1 tsp vanilla extract
Beat until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling. Don’t worry about making it look perfect; those little pockets of cheesecake add charm!
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Topping
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cheesecake mixture.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Pour 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter evenly over the dry cake mix to create a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake
Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Serving your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is just as fun as making it. This dessert is versatile and can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.
Individual Cups
- These single-serving cups can be made by layering the dump cake in clear glasses, adding whipped cream on top for a classy touch.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the cake combined with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.
Garnished with Fresh Strawberries
- Top each piece with fresh strawberries for added flavor and a pop of color. This enhances the strawberry experience and makes it visually appealing.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent twist. It pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake and fruity strawberry filling.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of whipped cream. This lightens up the dessert and adds an airy texture that complements the richness.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Perfecting your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.
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Use room temperature cream cheese: Letting your cream cheese soften will help you achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.
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Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until blended for the best texture; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean for perfect results.
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Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can enhance your dessert table. Here are some great options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dump cake.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a healthy balance that pairs well with desserts.
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Mini Cheese Platter: A small variety of cheeses can add savory notes that balance out the sweetness of your dump cake.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate makes for a fun snack alongside your dessert.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet bars add texture and depth, making them an appealing complement to the creamy cheesecake.
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Vanilla Pudding Cups: Light vanilla pudding adds creaminess while remaining subtle enough not to overpower other flavors.
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Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats provide another layer of sweetness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
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Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages like coffee or tea can create a comforting atmosphere while balancing out the sweetness of dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips on what to avoid.
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Skipping the Cream Cheese Softening: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and helps achieve a smooth texture.
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Not Spreading Pie Filling Evenly: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the baking dish. Uneven distribution may lead to uneven baking and flavor in your dump cake.
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Overmixing the Batter: Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy texture.
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Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
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Forgetting Optional Garnishes: Don’t overlook garnishing with fresh strawberries or whipped cream! These add extra flavor and visual appeal to your dessert.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 30-60 seconds, checking for desired warmth.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a non-stick skillet, cover, and warm gently for about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
What is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy dessert that layers strawberry pie filling with cheesecake and yellow cake mix for a delightful treat.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes! You can use fresh strawberries mixed with sugar as an alternative. Just ensure they are sweetened adequately.
How long does Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake last?
It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for about 3 months if stored properly.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different fruits or toppings like blueberries or chocolate chips for added flavor variety.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Its combination of flavors makes it perfect for any gathering or family meal. You can customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dessert that everyone will love!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, a simple yet elegant dessert that brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the creamy richness of cheesecake. This one-pan wonder is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delectable cake that bakes into a beautiful golden crust while making cleanup a breeze. Serve it warm or chilled, topped with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for an irresistible treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix on top.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix.
- Bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (97g)
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 309mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
