Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries, all topped with a golden, buttery cake layer. This recipe is perfect for those who love indulgent desserts but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s a “dump cake,” meaning you simply layer the ingredients and let the oven do the work. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering treat!
Recipe:
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The recipe starts with a layer of strawberry pie filling, followed by a creamy cheesecake mixture, and topped with a crumbly cake mix and melted butter. When baked, the cake mix forms a golden crust, while the cheesecake layer becomes soft and velvety. The result is a dessert that’s both comforting and decadent, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
– 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
– 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
– 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
These ingredients are easy to find and come together to create a dessert that’s both simple and luxurious. The strawberry pie filling provides a sweet and tangy base, while the cream cheese mixture adds a rich, creamy layer. The yellow cake mix and melted butter create a crumbly, buttery topping that ties everything together.
Directions/Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking to the dish.
3. Layer the strawberry pie filling: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the base of your dessert.
4. Make the cheesecake layer: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cheesecake layer: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it into an even layer.
6. Sprinkle the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Do not stir or mix the layers—this is a dump cake, so the layers will come together as they bake.
7. Drizzle the melted butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible to help the cake mix form a golden, crumbly crust.
8. Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
9. Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
10. Enjoy: Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
FAQ:
Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
A: While you can use fresh strawberries, they may not provide the same thick, syrupy consistency as pie filling. If you prefer fresh strawberries, consider cooking them down with a little sugar and cornstarch to create a similar texture.
Q: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
A: Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, you can experiment with other flavors like white cake mix, vanilla cake mix, or even a lemon cake mix for a citrusy twist.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the cake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold when it goes into the oven.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While butter provides the best flavor, you can use margarine as a substitute if needed. Just make sure it’s melted before drizzling it over the cake mix.
Conclusion:
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite. Your family and friends will thank you!