If you are searching for a dessert that is irresistibly simple yet decadently delicious, look no further than the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. This dessert is a delightful mashup of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and the comforting crumbly texture of a classic dump cake. It brings together a few pantry staples in a way that feels fancy but takes almost no effort, making it the perfect treat to whip up for family, friends, or even for a cozy night in. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to desserts that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe means gathering just a handful of ingredients that each play a crucial part. These essentials work together to create that incredible combination of flavors, textures, and colors, all while keeping the process delightfully simple.
- Yellow cake mix: This adds a sweet, cakey layer that crisps beautifully on top for texture contrast.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Drizzled over the cake mix to help it brown evenly and develop a rich flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened: The creamy foundation that brings the cheesecake component to life.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer for that perfect balance with the tart strawberries.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese filling.
- Strawberry pie filling: Provides luscious, juicy pockets of strawberry goodness throughout the dessert.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This little first step ensures nothing sticks and your beautiful cake will slide right out onto a serving plate.
Step 2: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the greased dish. This juicy layer will simmer under the cake mix and cheesecake dollops, bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. This mixture will create rich, creamy pockets that contrast perfectly with the fruit and cake.
Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry filling. No need to spread it out perfectly—this rustic approach will create little cheesecake islands that melt into the rest of the dessert.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Drizzle
Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the cheesecake dollops and strawberry filling. Then, drizzle the melted butter over the top to help the cake mix bake into a golden, buttery crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 40 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the edges bubble with strawberry goodness. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before diving in—this helps it set up for the best texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of fresh strawberries. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level by adding cooling creaminess that pairs beautifully with the warm cake.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to make your meal even more special, serve it alongside a simple green salad or light brunch items to balance the sweetness. It’s especially wonderful when paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve the dump cake in individual ramekins, with a swirl of extra strawberry sauce on top. You can also layer it parfait-style with whipped cream in clear glasses for a fun twist. The versatility of this recipe means you can get creative and impress without stress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it just as enjoyable the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dessert freezes well. Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, pop a serving in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This brings back the fresh-baked feel and makes every bite as comforting as the first.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh strawberries, simply cook them down with some sugar and a bit of water until they become syrupy, then use that mixture in place of the canned pie filling. This adds a lovely fresh flavor but takes a bit more prep time.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is key for creating that smooth, easy-to-spoon cheesecake topping. It blends better with the sugar and vanilla, giving you perfectly creamy dollops.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe, swap out the yellow cake mix for a certified gluten-free cake mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What is the best way to get that perfect golden crust on top?
The secret is the melted butter drizzled over the dry cake mix. It helps the top layer brown beautifully and adds a delicious buttery flavor that complements the strawberry and cheesecake layers.
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Cherry, blueberry, or peach pie fillings all make fantastic variations that bring their own unique twist while keeping the delicious cheesecake and cake combo intact.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe a try because it’s the kind of dessert that feels special without any complicated steps. It’s perfect for those times when you want to impress but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your favorites to share with loved ones over smiles and happy second helpings.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple, no-fuss dessert that combines the fruity sweetness of strawberry pie filling with creamy cheesecake and yellow cake mix. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing treat baked in one dish, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Strawberry Filling: Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a juicy fruit base.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Cheesecake Dollops: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the strawberry filling in the baking dish, distributing it evenly.
- Top with Cake Mix and Butter: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the cheesecake dollops. Then, drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly across the top to help create a golden crust while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving to let layers set and flavors meld.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- You can substitute strawberry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings for variety.
- If desired, serve with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for extra garnish.
- This dessert is best served within a day or two, stored covered in the refrigerator.
