The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightfully simple dessert that combines the ease of a dump cake with the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, no-fuss option that doesn’t skimp on taste. With layers of luscious strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and a crisp cake topping, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering or a cozy night in. Follow these straightforward steps to create a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, with minimal preparation time and ingredients that are easily found in any pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this dump cake promises a delicious outcome with little effort.
Ingredients
Strawberry Pie Filling: 2 cans (15 ounces each)
Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
Egg: 1 large
Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup
Vanilla or White Cake Mix: 1 package
Salted Butter: ½ cup, cold
Fresh Strawberries: For serving (optional)
Directions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9″x13” baking dish.
Make Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Add Cream Cheese to Baking Dish:
Drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling in the baking dish. Spread the dollops gently to cover more surface area and create an even layer.
Add Cake Mix:
Sprinkle the vanilla or white cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Add Butter:
Slice the cold butter into very thin slices or pats. Distribute these evenly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible to aid in even browning.
Bake the Cake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the topping is golden brown and the strawberry layer is bubbling.
Serving:
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes on Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Butter Alternative: If you prefer less salt, you can use unsalted butter instead of salted butter. This won’t affect the cooking process but will slightly alter the taste.
- Cream Cheese Layer Tips: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. For a smoother consistency, you can also blend the mixture using a hand mixer.
- Cake Mix Options: While vanilla or white cake mix is suggested, feel free to experiment with different flavors such as yellow cake mix for a different taste profile.
- Adding Nuts: For added texture and flavor, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before adding the butter.
- Storage: This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it is covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: If you wish to freeze the dump cake, bake and completely cool the cake first. Then, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry pie filling?
A1: Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. For the best results, mix the fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices before using them as the base layer.
Q2: Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Just substitute the regular cake mix with your favorite gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.
Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the layers in the baking dish a day ahead and refrigerate. Just add the butter slices right before baking to ensure it has the proper texture when baked.
Q4: What’s the best way to serve this cake?
A4: This cake tastes great both warm and at room temperature. For an extra indulgent treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Q5: Can I make this cake in a slow cooker?
A5: Yes, you can make a dump cake in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as instructed, cover, and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours, until the topping is cooked through and the edges are bubbly.
Conclusion
the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake offers a delicious twist on traditional desserts that is both easy to make and satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization and is perfect for busy days when you want a homemade treat without the extensive preparation. Whether served at a family dinner, a festive gathering, or enjoyed as a special treat, this dump cake is sure to impress with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Serve it up with fresh strawberries or a scoop of ice cream to elevate it even further. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake proves that simplicity and flavor can indeed go hand in hand, making it a must-try recipe for any dessert lover.
