Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of cheesecake and strawberries. It’s one of those classic pairings that always brings a smile to your face. When I first tried this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, I was blown away by how easy it was to make and how incredibly delicious it turned out. My family loved it so much that I ended up making it twice in one week! The layers of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake mix come together in perfect harmony, creating a dessert that’s not only visually appealing but also full of rich flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dump cake is a sure winner!

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup butter, sliced into thin pats

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberry pie filling.
5. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top of the cream cheese layer, spreading it as evenly as possible.
6. Layer the pats of butter evenly across the top of the cake mix.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cake is golden brown on top and bubbly.
8. Allow to cool for a bit before serving, as this helps set the layers.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal (varies depending on exact ingredients used)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Let the dump cake cool slightly before serving.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
• Enjoy it as a simple yet satisfying dessert after dinner.
• If you want a more decadent treat, drizzle some extra strawberry syrup over the top before serving.

Additional Tips

1. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture.
2. Try fresh strawberries for an extra burst of flavor, though the canned pie filling works wonderfully.
3. Ensure your butter is evenly distributed across the top for even baking and crispiness.
4. Let it cool completely before storing or cutting for cleaner slices.
5. Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the top before baking for an added crunch.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Dump Cake: Instead of strawberry pie filling, use a mixture of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a berry medley twist.
• Chocolate Cheesecake Dump Cake: Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a rich, chocolatey version of this dessert.
• Coconut Cream Dump Cake: Add shredded coconut to the top before baking for a tropical spin.
• Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake: Use a can of peach pie filling instead of strawberry for a different fruity flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side.
• Pair with fresh whipped cream or even a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra richness.
• For an elegant presentation, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a few sliced strawberries on top.
• Serve at a family dinner, potluck, or BBQ for an easy yet crowd-pleasing dessert.
• Top with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a chocolaty touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing leftovers: Cover and refrigerate any leftover cake for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Let the cake cool completely before freezing. Store in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a quick treat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other fruit fillings for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use any fruit pie filling like blueberry, peach, or apple.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it right before you plan to serve.
4. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
   Yes, you can try different flavors like chocolate or spice cake for variety.
5. How do I know when the dump cake is done?
   It should be golden brown on top and bubbly along the edges. You can also check with a toothpick to ensure the cake is fully baked.
6. Is this dessert too sweet?
   The sweetness is balanced by the cream cheese, but you can reduce the sugar in the cream cheese mixture if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
7. Can I use homemade pie filling instead of canned?
   Yes, homemade strawberry pie filling works well in this recipe too.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, but butter gives a richer flavor.
9. What size baking dish should I use?
   A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version of the dump cake.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for those who want something simple, yet indulgent. The layers of sweet strawberry pie filling, smooth cream cheese, and buttery cake mix come together in a way that makes it hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or just for a treat, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it the ultimate go-to dessert when you’re short on time but want something impressive. Give it a try, and watch your guests (or family) devour it in no time!

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