Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: Prepare to be amazed by the easiest, most delicious dessert you’ll ever make! Imagine the creamy, tangy delight of cheesecake combined with the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries, all nestled under a buttery, golden cake topping. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for seconds.

While the exact origins of dump cakes are a bit hazy, their popularity surged in the mid-20th century, likely born from a desire for quick and convenient desserts. Think of it as a simplified cobbler, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks where time is of the essence. The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity – you literally “dump” the ingredients into a pan and bake! No fancy mixing bowls or complicated steps required.

People adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The creamy cheesecake layer adds a richness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries. The cake mix topping creates a delightful textural contrast, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crumbly – a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it with different fruits or cake mixes to create your own unique variations. Get ready to experience dessert bliss with this incredibly easy and satisfying treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 1 (21 ounce) can strawberry pie filling
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• Optional: Fresh strawberries for garnish

Preparing the Cream Cheese Layer:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is tackle the cream cheese layer. This is what gives our dump cake that delicious cheesecake-like tang and richness. Don’t skip this step, it’s what makes this dessert truly special!

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: This is crucial! Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened. Take it out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you plan to start baking. If you’re short on time, you can carefully soften it in the microwave, but be very cautious not to melt it. Microwave in 15-second intervals, checking and stirring each time, until it’s soft and pliable.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Powdered Sugar: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. The powdered sugar will help to sweeten the cream cheese and give it a smooth, creamy texture.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Pour in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the flavor of the cream cheese and adds a touch of warmth to the overall dessert.
4. Mix Until Smooth: Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. You don’t want any lumps of cream cheese in your cheesecake layer!

Assembling the Dump Cake:

Now for the fun part – layering all the ingredients to create our dump cake masterpiece! This is where the “dump” in dump cake really comes into play. It’s super easy and requires minimal effort. Perfect for those days when you want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to serve later.
2. Spread the Strawberry Pie Filling: Pour the entire can of strawberry pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will be the base of our dump cake and provide a delicious fruity layer.
3. Dollop the Cream Cheese Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling. Try to distribute it in dollops across the entire surface. Don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth; the heat of the oven will help it spread out as it bakes.
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Don’t mix it in! This is what gives the dump cake its signature texture.
5. Drizzle with Melted Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Again, try to cover the entire surface. The melted butter will help to moisten the cake mix and create a golden-brown crust.

Baking the Dump Cake:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake our dump cake to golden-brown perfection. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible!

1. Bake in Preheated Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbly around the edges. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
2. Check for Doneness: To check if the dump cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
3. Cool Before Serving: Remove the dump cake from the oven and let it cool completely before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to set properly. If you try to serve it while it’s still hot, it may be too soft and difficult to cut.

Serving and Storage:

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – serving and enjoying our delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! This dessert is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It’s also fantastic cold, straight from the refrigerator.

1. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish the dump cake with fresh strawberries before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the strawberry flavor. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
2. Serving Suggestions: Cut the dump cake into squares and serve. It’s delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
3. Storage Instructions: Store any leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. You can also freeze the dump cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Different Pie Filling: Experiment with different pie fillings, such as blueberry, cherry, apple, or peach. Each filling will give the dump cake a unique flavor profile.
• Different Cake Mix: Try using a different cake mix, such as white cake mix, chocolate cake mix, or even a spice cake mix.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the cake mix before baking for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the cake mix for a chocolatey twist.
• Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake mix for a tropical flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright and citrusy flavor.
• Cinnamon: Sprinkle cinnamon over the cake mix for a warm and comforting flavor.

Troubleshooting:

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are a few common issues you might encounter when making a dump cake and how to fix them:

• Dry Cake Mix: If the cake mix seems too dry after baking, try adding a little more melted butter or a splash of milk to the top before baking.
• Soggy Cake: If the cake is soggy, make sure you’re using the correct amount of melted butter and that you’re baking it for the correct amount of time. You can also try baking it for a few extra minutes to help it dry out.
• Uneven Baking: If the cake is baking unevenly, rotate the baking dish halfway through the baking time.
• Burnt Top: If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, delicious, and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is truly a dessert revelation, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe repertoire. It’s the kind of treat that elicits gasps of delight with its simplicity and then earns rave reviews with its incredible flavor. The creamy cheesecake layer, perfectly balanced by the sweet and slightly tart strawberries, all nestled beneath a buttery, golden-brown cake topping – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone begging for seconds.

But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its sheer ease. Forget complicated baking techniques and hours spent in the kitchen. This dump cake lives up to its name, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when you simply crave a comforting, homemade dessert without the fuss. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, regardless of your baking skill level.

Imagine serving this warm, fragrant cake at your next potluck. Picture the smiles as your family gathers around the table, each spoonful a burst of strawberry cheesecake bliss. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy.

And the best part? You can easily customize it to your liking! For a richer flavor, try using a full-fat cream cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced twist. You could even incorporate other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry sensation.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess perfectly complements the warm, gooey cake.
* Drizzle with a strawberry glaze or a simple powdered sugar dusting for an extra touch of elegance.
* Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
* For a more decadent treat, serve with a side of fresh strawberries.
* Leftovers (if there are any!) are delicious cold straight from the fridge.

Variations to Explore:

* Lemon Cheesecake Dump Cake: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with lemon curd for a tangy and refreshing twist.
* Chocolate Cheesecake Dump Cake: Use a chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for a chocolate lover’s dream.
* Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Dump Cake: Replace the strawberry pie filling with apple pie filling and add a generous sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake mix.
* Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake: Use peach pie filling for a summery and delicious variation.

I’m so excited for you to try this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! It’s a recipe that I’ve personally made countless times, and it never fails to impress. It’s become a staple in my own kitchen, and I have no doubt it will become one in yours too.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredibly easy and delicious dessert. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own.

Once you’ve tried it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what you loved about it, what you changed, and how it was received by your family and friends. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to see your creations!