Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries. This easy-to-make treat requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The term “dump cake” refers to the simple method of layering ingredients in a baking dish without the need for mixing, resulting in a delicious dessert with a crisp topping and a soft, fruity center.
This dessert is ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or as a sweet ending to any meal. Its versatility allows for customization; you can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or peaches to suit your taste preferences. The combination of a buttery cake mix topping and a creamy cheesecake layer creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a comforting dessert, Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days or when you’re short on time. The “dump” method involves layering ingredients without the need for mixing, simplifying the baking process.
- Versatile Flavor Options: While this version uses strawberries, you can easily swap them for other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or mixed berries to create different flavor profiles.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet fruit is a classic that appeals to a wide range of tastes, ensuring your dessert is a hit at any gathering.
- Quick Baking Time: With a baking time of just 45 minutes, you can have a warm, homemade dessert ready in under an hour.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using pantry staples like cake mix and canned pie filling keeps the ingredient list short and the preparation straightforward.
- Customizable Toppings: Enhance the dessert with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
- Perfect for Beginners: The simplicity of this recipe makes it an excellent choice for those new to baking or looking for a hassle-free dessert option.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
Equipment Used
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Prepare the Cake Mix Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add the cake mix to the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Assemble the Base: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Cream Cheese Layer: Dollop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the strawberry filling. Use a spatula to gently spread it out, creating an even layer.
- Add the Cake Mix Topping: Evenly sprinkle the cake mix and butter mixture over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/12 of the recipe):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Fruit Substitutes: Replace strawberry pie filling with blueberry, peach, or mixed berry pie filling for different flavors.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, over the top before baking for added crunch.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix in chocolate chips with the cake mix for a chocolate-strawberry cheesecake dump cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Slice them and mix with sugar to create a syrupy consistency similar to pie filling.
Pro Tips by Elisa
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother cream cheese layer, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before spreading it over the strawberry filling.
- Enhance the Crust: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake mix and melted butter mixture for a subtle depth of flavor.
- Even Layering: When adding the cake mix topping, sprinkle it evenly to ensure consistent baking and a uniform crust.
- Monitor Baking Time: Ovens vary; start checking the cake at 40 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the filling bubbly.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and enhances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- A La Mode: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream or a dollop of whipped topping for added richness.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries or mixed berries to complement the strawberry flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate or a chocolate syrup for a decadent touch.
- Coffee Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
For a visual guide on preparing this dessert, you might find the following video helpful:
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cans 21 oz each strawberry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Prepare the Cake Mix Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add the cake mix to the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Assemble the Base: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Cream Cheese Layer: Dollop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the strawberry filling. Use a spatula to gently spread it out, creating an even layer.
- Add the Cake Mix Topping: Evenly sprinkle the cake mix and butter mixture over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother cream cheese layer, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before spreading it over the strawberry filling.
Enhance the Crust: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake mix and melted butter mixture for a subtle depth of flavor.