If you’re craving a dessert that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, look no further than this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. It combines the sweet taste of strawberry pie filling with a creamy cheesecake layer and the convenience of a dump cake. What makes this dessert even better is that it’s highly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, it’s sure to satisfy.
Want to explore more dump cake variations? Check out the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe for a slightly different take!
What Is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is exactly what it sounds like—an effortless dessert where you dump all the ingredients into a baking dish without mixing, and let the oven do the rest. In this case, the combination of strawberry pie filling, cream cheese, and cake mix creates layers of flavors and textures that are absolutely irresistible.
For a quick and fruity alternative, consider trying this Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling, which is equally delicious but focuses solely on strawberry flavors.
For those interested in creating their own vanilla extract for baking, check out this guide on how to make homemade vanilla extract.
Ingredients Overview
The best part about this recipe is that it only requires a handful of simple ingredients:
- 2 cans of strawberry pie filling (21 ounces each)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 box of vanilla or white cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1/2 cup salted butter, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 egg, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For those looking for an added twist, check out Chocolate and Strawberry Cake for a chocolate variation of this flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake couldn’t be easier. Here’s how:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add chunks of cream cheese on top of the strawberry filling. For a creamier layer, you can beat the cream cheese with egg, sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract before spreading it.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and pie filling layers.
- Top with thinly sliced butter, ensuring the butter covers most of the cake mix for a crispy, buttery crust.
3. Bake the Cake
Bake the dish for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If the top browns too quickly, cover the dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
For similar baking tips, refer to the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs, which offer another irresistible dessert combination.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. For an added touch of indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
For those curious about making their own pie filling from scratch, here’s a guide on homemade strawberry pie filling.
Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
If you’re looking to make the perfect dump cake, here are some useful tips:
- Don’t mix the layers: Keeping the layers separate allows each to bake individually, creating the perfect texture.
- Use frozen butter: For an even buttery top, freeze the butter and grate it over the cake mix. This will ensure an evenly crisp topping.
- Experiment with different cake mixes: Although vanilla or white cake mix works best, you can also use a yellow cake mix or even a chocolate cake mix for a unique twist.
If you’re a fan of simple desserts, consider checking out the No-Bake Funfetti Oreo Icebox Cake for another no-fuss option.
Variations and Customizations
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences.
1. Flavor Alternatives
- Try using blueberry or peach pie filling instead of strawberry for a different fruit flavor.
- Swap the vanilla cake mix with lemon or spice cake mix for a more unique taste.
You can also explore the idea of pairing fruit flavors with chocolate by trying Chocolate and Strawberry Cake or other flavor combinations for a twist.
2. Dietary Adjustments
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives to make it vegan-friendly.
3. Other Cake Mix Options
You can easily switch up the cake mix flavor based on your preferences. For example, chocolate cake mix can add a richer depth of flavor, while a lemon cake mix will create a refreshing, zesty dessert.
How to Store and Reheat Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This cake is just as good the next day, and it stores beautifully for leftovers.
Storing
- Refrigerate: Once the cake has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Microwave: For individual servings, microwave for about 1 minute until warmed through.
- Oven: To reheat the entire cake, cover it with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
For another easy-to-store dessert option, consider making Pumpkin Banana Loaf, which is equally delightful and keeps well for days.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 4g
To lower the calorie content, you can reduce the amount of butter or use low-fat cream cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used. To make them similar to canned pie filling, cook them with sugar and cornstarch. For a guide, see how to make homemade strawberry pie filling.
What cake mix works best for this recipe?
A vanilla or white cake mix is ideal, but you can use a yellow cake mix for a richer flavor. Avoid cake mixes with pudding, as they may result in a denser texture.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for events where you want a fresh dessert with minimal prep time.
Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes, this cake freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a sweet, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a family gathering, or simply want to enjoy a quick homemade treat, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of strawberry pie filling, cream cheese, and a buttery cake mix crust is simply irresistible.
For more ideas, try the Honey Cheesecake Baklava for a Mediterranean-inspired cheesecake twist or explore other fruity desserts like the Strawberry Tres Leches Cake.