Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberry pie filling with the creamy texture of cheesecake and a golden cake topping. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. This one-pan wonder not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dessert is ready to bake in just 10 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of strawberry and cheesecake makes it a favorite among both kids and adults.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm or chilled, and garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for extra flair.
- One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this no-fuss recipe that requires just one baking dish.
- Decadent Flavor: Rich cheesecake flavor paired with sweet strawberries creates an irresistible treat.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch dish ensures even baking and optimal serving size.
- Electric Mixer: Speeds up mixing ingredients for a perfectly smooth cream cheese layer.
- Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down bowls to get every last bit of that creamy mixture.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: Fresh strawberries and whipped cream for garnish
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. This layer acts as a flavorful base for your cake.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Use an electric mixer for quick results.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Don’t worry about making it perfect; irregular dollops create delightful pockets of cheesecake throughout.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix Topping
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer. Drizzle melted butter over the dry cake mix to ensure even moisture as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with friends and family!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Serving Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is simple and fun! This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
Individual Cups
- Use small dessert cups for individual servings. Layer the dump cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream adds a creamy element that complements the cheesecake flavor beautifully.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness. This combination of chocolate and strawberry is irresistible!
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Generously dollop whipped cream on top before serving. This makes the dessert even richer and adds a lovely texture contrast.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Add slices of fresh strawberries or other berries as a garnish. It not only looks appealing but also enhances the fruity flavor of the dump cake.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
To make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time!
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Use room temperature cream cheese: Soften the cream cheese before mixing; this will help achieve a smooth and creamy texture in your cheesecake layer.
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Mix cake batter gently: When preparing the yellow cake mix, stir gently to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to denser cake texture.
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Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts like almond or lemon to the cheesecake mixture for added depth of flavor.
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Allow cooling time: Let the dump cake cool slightly after baking before serving. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake enhances your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider!
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Fresh Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the dump cake perfectly. -
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
These sweet treats are easy to make and add an elegant touch when served alongside your dessert. -
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a refreshing side that complements the flavors of cheesecake. -
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A slice of this classic cake provides a delightful contrast in flavors while keeping things fruity. -
Lemon Sorbet
The tartness of lemon sorbet cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing palate cleanse between bites. -
Cheese Platter
Serve assorted cheeses with crackers for a savory option that pairs well with sweet desserts like this dump cake. -
Coffee or Tea
A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage pairing that enhances the enjoyment of your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the cream cheese beating – Not properly beating the cream cheese can lead to lumps in your cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s smooth before adding it to the cake.
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Ignoring the pie filling spread – If you don’t spread the strawberry pie filling evenly, some parts of your cake might end up dry. Take your time to ensure an even layer.
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Overbaking the cake – Baking your dump cake too long can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on the baking time and do a toothpick test.
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Using cold ingredients – Using cold cream cheese or butter can result in uneven mixing. Always let them sit at room temperature before starting.
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Not letting it cool properly – Cutting into your dump cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- The dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Use a non-stick pan over low heat, covering it with a lid to retain moisture, until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
You can use fresh strawberries, but they may not provide the same sweetness and consistency as pie filling. Consider adding sugar and cornstarch for better results.
How do I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Feel free to add toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. You can also swap strawberry pie filling with other fruit flavors!
Is there a gluten-free option for this dump cake?
Yes! You can use gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How long does it take to prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
This delicious dessert takes only about 10 minutes of prep time, making it quick and easy!
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy and delightful dessert that everyone will love. Its creamy texture combined with fruity strawberry flavor makes it perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night at home. Don’t hesitate to try variations by adding different fruits or toppings—get creative!
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 luscious dessert that marries the sweetness of strawberry pie filling with a smooth cheesecake layer, all topped with a golden cake mix crust. This one-pan recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 10 minutes of prep time before it bakes to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress with its rich flavors and stunning presentation. Serve it warm or chilled, and don’t forget to add fresh strawberries or whipped cream for that extra touch!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling.
- Evenly sprinkle dry cake mix on top and drizzle melted butter over it.
- Bake for approximately 40 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
