Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect combination of fruity sweetness and creamy cheesecake goodness, all topped with a buttery crumble. This dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s an ideal treat for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Plus, it offers plenty of room for variations to suit any taste!
If you’re a fan of quick and easy desserts, you might also enjoy this Caramel Apple Dump Cake or a Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. These alternatives use a similar “dump and bake” method to create rich, flavorful cakes with minimal effort.
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert that lives up to its name: you “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish without mixing them. The result is a gooey, fruity filling with a crisp, buttery topping. It’s not like a traditional cake; it’s more like a cross between a cobbler and a crumble, making it a favorite for those who enjoy warm, comforting desserts.
Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
To make this delightful strawberry cheesecake dump cake, you will need:
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) of strawberry pie filling
- 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of butter, melted
- Optional: powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and fresh strawberries for garnish
Variations: Try different pie fillings, such as cherry or blueberry, or swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate or white cake mix. For more unique dessert ideas, consider checking out other quick and easy cake recipes that add a twist to classic treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this easy and delicious strawberry cheesecake dump cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Strawberry Layer: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Cheesecake Layer: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. For added flavor, mix in powdered sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries.
- Cake Mix Layer: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the strawberry and cream cheese layers, covering the entire surface.
- Add the Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. This helps create the cake’s golden, crispy top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-60 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
- Serve: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. For a special touch, top it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
To make your strawberry cheesecake dump cake perfect every time:
- Layering: Don’t mix the layers. This method gives the cake its signature texture—a gooey filling with a crispy top.
- Butter Distribution: Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to prevent dry spots. For extra crispness, try grating frozen butter and scattering it across the surface.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake at the 50-minute mark. The top should be golden brown, and the edges should bubble. If needed, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
If you want to explore other baking tips, check out this guide to perfect cake texture for more insights.
How to Store and Reheat
Proper storage keeps your strawberry cheesecake dump cake delicious for several days:
- Refrigeration: Once cooled, cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-30 seconds.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
For other easy desserts that store well, consider these make-ahead cake recipes for inspiration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing the Layers: One common mistake is stirring the layers together. Avoid this to maintain the distinct layers of gooey filling, creamy cheesecake, and crispy topping.
- Uneven Butter Distribution: Ensure the butter covers all the dry cake mix. This prevents dry spots and creates a uniform, crispy topping.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake starting at 45 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the cake and make it less enjoyable.
Variations and Additions
The beauty of a dump cake lies in its versatility. Here are some variations to try:
- Different Fillings: Swap the strawberry pie filling for blueberry, cherry, or apple. Mixing fillings is also an option for a unique flavor profile.
- Alternate Cake Mixes: Use chocolate, lemon, or even spice cake mix for a new twist.
- Add Toppings: Dust the finished cake with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or add fresh fruit slices for an extra touch of elegance.
For more creative twists, visit this page that offers a variety of flavor combinations to suit any palate.
FAQs
Q: Is a dump cake supposed to be gooey?
Yes, the gooey texture is one of the key features of a dump cake. The filling should be moist and slightly gooey, while the top is crisp and golden.
Q: How do you know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. If the center is still wobbly, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Q: Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving.
Q: Should the cake be refrigerated after baking?
Yes, leftover dump cake should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness. It can be served cold or reheated as desired.
Additional Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love these:
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake: A delightful mix of apples and caramel for a comforting dessert.
- Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: For those who love the tartness of blueberries paired with creamy cheesecake.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, flavorful dessert that brings together the sweetness of strawberry pie filling, the richness of cream cheese, and the crunch of yellow cake mix. Its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal choice for both quick family treats and special occasions. With the option to experiment with different fillings, toppings, and flavors, you can customize this recipe to suit any taste. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting slice of this delectable dessert!
For more inspiration, explore other delicious cake recipes that will take your baking to the next level. Happy baking!