Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, look no further than Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity taste of strawberry pie filling, all topped with a buttery, crumbly cake layer. Perfect for any occasion, this dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, fresh strawberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this aside for later.

3. Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling:
Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will serve as the fruity base layer for your dump cake.

4. Add the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the dollops will spread as it bakes.

5. Prepare the Cake Mix Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and strawberry cake mix until well combined and crumbly. This will form the topping for your cake.

6. Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle the cake mix mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

7. Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

8. Add Final Touches:
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired. These optional toppings add an extra layer of indulgence to this already delightful dessert.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Warm Delight: For the best experience, serve the dump cake warm. The creamy cheesecake layer and strawberry filling are at their most delightful when the cake is still slightly warm from the oven.
• Add Toppings: Enhance the flavor and presentation with optional toppings such as a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup can also add a touch of elegance.
• Pairing Ideas: This dump cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will keep for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dump cake if you need to store it for a longer period. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
• Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent the top layer from becoming soggy, make sure the cake is completely cooled before storing. Also, avoid covering it tightly while it is still warm, as this can trap moisture and affect the texture.
• Serving After Freezing: When ready to serve, reheat the frozen dump cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore some of the original crispiness of the topping.

These serving and storage tips ensure that your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake remains as delicious as when it was first baked, whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving some for later.

Variations:

1. Mixed Berry Dump Cake
Switch up the flavors by using a mix of berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, in place of the strawberry pie filling. The combination of berries adds a tangy twist and vibrant color to the cake.

2. Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake
For a fruity change, use canned peach pie filling instead of strawberry. The sweet and slightly tart peaches pair wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake layer and crumbly topping.

3. Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake
Replace the strawberry pie filling with apple pie filling and add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake mix topping. This variation offers a cozy, fall-inspired twist with warm, spiced flavors.

4. Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake
Incorporate chocolate by adding chocolate chips or chunks to the cream cheese mixture or by mixing cocoa powder into the cake mix. This creates a rich, chocolatey layer that pairs beautifully with the strawberry.

5. Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake
Use lemon pie filling or lemon curd along with blueberry pie filling for a tangy and sweet combination. This variation provides a refreshing citrus twist that complements the creamy cheesecake layer.

6. Pumpkin Cheesecake Dump Cake
For a fall-inspired dessert, substitute the strawberry pie filling with canned pumpkin and add pumpkin spice to the cream cheese mixture. This creates a rich, pumpkin-flavored cake with a hint of spice.

7. Coconut Pineapple Dump Cake
Use pineapple pie filling and add shredded coconut to the cake mix topping. This tropical variation combines the sweetness of pineapple with the nutty flavor of coconut for a delightful treat.

8. Raspberry Almond Dump Cake
Replace the strawberry pie filling with raspberry pie filling and add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. This adds a lovely almond flavor that complements the tart raspberries.

9. Salted Caramel Dump Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer before adding the cake mix topping. After baking, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty flavor combination.

10. Nutella Cheesecake Dump Cake
Swirl Nutella into the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate-hazelnut twist. This adds a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the strawberry pie filling and crumbly topping.

FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
While fresh strawberries can be used, they will need to be cooked down with sugar and a thickening agent (like cornstarch) to mimic the consistency of pie filling. Fresh strawberries alone may not provide the same sweetness and texture.

2. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix. Vanilla, chocolate, or even lemon cake mixes can be used to create unique variations of the dump cake.

3. How do I ensure the cream cheese layer is evenly distributed?
Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pie filling and use a spatula to gently spread it out. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth, as it will spread more during baking.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the dump cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to bake it right before serving to enjoy it warm.

5. How can I make the topping crispier?
For a crispier topping, increase the baking time slightly or bake at a slightly higher temperature. Be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning. You can also add a bit more butter to the cake mix for extra crispiness.

6. Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese as a substitute. The texture and flavor may be slightly different, but it will still work in the recipe.

7. How can I make this a gluten-free dessert?
To make the dump cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that the strawberry pie filling is gluten-free. Check labels or use homemade pie filling if needed.

8. Can I use a different type of pie filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute the strawberry pie filling with any other fruit pie filling, such as cherry, blueberry, or peach, to create different flavor profiles.

9. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.

10. Can I freeze the dump cake?
Yes, you can freeze the dump cake. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect blend of ease and indulgence. With its rich, creamy cheesecake layer and sweet strawberry topping, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, this dump cake offers a delicious solution that’s both quick to prepare and delightful to eat. Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious, effortless dessert!