Are you in search of a dessert that combines the juicy sweetness of strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, all while being incredibly easy to make? Look no further than the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday parties, and guarantees to impress your guests with its delectable flavors and gorgeous presentation. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering dessert in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Strawberry Cake Mix: 1 box to create a vibrant and flavorful base.
- Strawberry Pie Filling: 1 (21 oz) can to add the juicy, fruity layer that makes this cake irresistible.
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8 oz) package, softened, to incorporate the rich, creamy texture synonymous with cheesecake.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted, to bring all the layers together with a buttery goodness.
- Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup to sweeten the cream cheese layer.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon to enhance the flavors of the dessert.
- Optional Toppings: Whipped cream and fresh strawberries for garnishing, adding an extra layer of flavor and elegance.
Directions to Deliciousness:
- Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your cake comes out perfectly, without sticking to the dish.
- Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling: Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling onto the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This layer sets the stage for the fruity delight that is to come.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Blend in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. Then, carefully spoon this mixture over the strawberry layer, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry strawberry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This easy step brings a unique twist to traditional cake baking.
- Drizzle with Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer, ensuring it moistens most of the cake mix for a perfect bake.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a golden brown and the edges are bubbling with goodness.
- Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top for those who desire a bit of extra decadence.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per serving
- Servings: Makes 12 servings
Serving and Storage Tips :
After you’ve baked this scrumptious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, knowing the best ways to serve and store it will ensure every bite remains as delightful as the first. Here are some expert tips to keep your cake delicious, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers.
Serving Tips:
- Temperature Matters: This cake is best served warm. If it has cooled down, a quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave can bring back its gooey goodness. However, ensure it’s not too hot if you’re topping it with whipped cream to prevent melting.
- Add Freshness: Garnishing with fresh strawberries not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the presentation, making it more appealing.
- Whipped Cream on the Side: Offering whipped cream on the side allows guests to add as much or as little as they like, tailoring the dessert to their preference.
- Pairing with Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cake. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is sublime.
- Beverage Pairing: Complement this dessert with a beverage that balances its sweetness. A cup of strong coffee or tea can cut through the richness, making each bite as enjoyable as the first.
Storage Tips:
- Cool Completely Before Storing: If you have leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely. Storing it while it’s still warm can result in condensation inside the container, making the top layer soggy.
- Airtight Container: Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it moist. If you don’t have a container large enough, tightly cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate: Because of the cream cheese layer, it’s best to refrigerate this cake if you’re planning to keep it for more than a few hours. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: This cake freezes well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then foil, or store them in a single layer in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reviving Leftovers: To revive a refrigerated or thawed piece of cake, warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help bring back the cake’s original texture and warmth.
variations:
1. Mixed Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Swap the Filling: Use a mixed berry pie filling instead of the strawberry pie filling for a more complex berry flavor.
- Add Extra Berries: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of fresh raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries over the pie filling for added texture and tartness.
2. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Chocolate Cake Mix: Replace the strawberry cake mix with a chocolate cake mix to introduce a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Garnish with Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving, or sprinkle with chocolate shavings for a visually appealing and decadent touch.
3. Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Peach Pie Filling: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with peach pie filling for a summery, peachy twist.
- Add Cinnamon: Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into the dry cake mix before sprinkling it over the cream cheese layer for a hint of warmth.
4. Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Lemon Cake Mix: Use a lemon cake mix instead of strawberry for a zesty flavor.
- Blueberry Pie Filling: Swap the strawberry pie filling for blueberry pie filling, and consider adding fresh lemon zest over the cream cheese layer for an extra burst of citrus.
5. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Pumpkin Puree and Spice: For a fall variation, mix a can of pumpkin puree with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice. Layer this mixture instead of the strawberry pie filling.
- Spice Cake Mix: Use a spice cake mix to complement the pumpkin layer, perfect for a cozy autumn dessert.
6. Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Pineapple and Coconut: Use pineapple pie filling and add a layer of shredded coconut between the cream cheese and cake mix layers for a tropical twist.
- Garnish: Before serving, top with toasted coconut flakes and a cherry for a playful nod to tropical flavors.
7. No-Bake Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Refrigerated Approach: For a no-bake version, use a graham cracker crust in a dish, layer with cheesecake filling (mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and whipped cream), then top with strawberry pie filling and refrigerate until set. Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers before serving.
Customizing Your Cake
The beauty of dump cake recipes lies in their simplicity and versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruit fillings, cake mixes, and toppings based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile and can be tailored to fit any occasion or craving. By starting with the base recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake and incorporating these variations, you’re bound to discover new favorites that will delight your family and friends.
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy and satisfaction to your taste buds. Its simplicity in preparation, combined with the luxurious taste of strawberries and cheesecake, makes it a must-try for any home baker looking for a quick and impressive dessert option.
So, why wait for a special occasion? With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can bring a slice of happiness to your table any day of the week. Dive into the delightful world of dump cakes and let the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!
