Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you are ready to indulge in a dessert that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines luscious fresh strawberries with creamy cheesecake, all topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that just melts in your mouth. The ease of “dump” style baking means you spend more time enjoying and less time fussing, making it a perfect treat for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simple but powerful ingredients that work together to build layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays its part: the fresh strawberries bring vibrant color and natural sweetness, the cream cheese adds smooth, tangy richness, and the cake mix creates that irresistible crumbly top. Here’s what you’ll need to create this dessert masterpiece.

• 2 cups strawberries, sliced: Fresh berries add juiciness and a bright strawberry flavor that’s absolutely divine.
• 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling: This amplifies the strawberry goodness with a thick, luscious filling that holds everything together.
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Softened for easy blending, cream cheese adds a rich, tangy layer that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1/2 cup sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten the cream cheese mixture without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and gives a warm aromatic note.
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix: The dry cake mix forms the classic buttery, crisp topping that makes this cake unforgettable.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted: Poured over the cake mix, butter ensures a rich crust and golden finish.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you want a little extra texture.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your cake is assembled. Then, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with nonstick spray or butter. This step ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out easily for serving.

Step 2: Layer the Fresh Strawberries

Spread the sliced fresh strawberries evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. These juicy berries provide a natural base bursting with fresh, fruity flavor that’s essential to the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling

Spoon the entire can of strawberry pie filling over the fresh strawberries. This luscious filling adds a sweet, glossy layer full of texture and strawberry goodness that elevates the cake’s flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth and creamy. This creamy layer offers a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and cake.

Step 5: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer

Dollop the cream cheese mixture gently over the strawberry pie filling, using a spatula to spread it out as evenly as possible without mixing the layers. This sets the stage for the buttery cake topping that completes the dish.

Step 6: Sprinkle Dry Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely. This step may feel a little unusual, but the cake mix bakes up into a golden, crisp topping that’s iconic in dump cakes.

Step 7: Pour Melted Butter and Add Nuts

Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix to help it crisp up beautifully. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top—they add wonderful texture and a subtle nutty flavor.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling, signaling that all the flavors have melded into something spectacular.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This brief resting time allows the layers to set perfectly, making it easier to scoop generous servings of your irresistible creation.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this cake to show-stopping status. Try a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess that complements the tangy cheesecake and sweet strawberries. Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

This dessert is rich and satisfying on its own, so light, fresh sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some fresh fruit salad can balance the sweetness perfectly if you’re serving it after a heavier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming, rustic look. You can also layer it with extra strawberries or drizzle with chocolate sauce to add visual appeal and layers of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover dump cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient treat to enjoy later without losing any of its wonderful texture or flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently if desired.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Reheating this way keeps the crust crisp and restores that freshly baked feeling, making every bite taste as amazing as the first.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well in this recipe, just make sure to thaw and drain them slightly to avoid excess moisture that could make the dump cake too soggy.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese for this cake?

Yes, cream cheese is essential because it adds that signature richness and tangy flavor that sets this dump cake apart from a typical fruit dessert. It blends the textures perfectly.

Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with another flavor?

You can experiment with white or even funfetti cake mixes, but yellow cake mix provides the perfect buttery, slightly sweet topping that complements the strawberry and cheesecake layers best.

What nuts are best to use if I want to add crunch?

Pecans and walnuts are both excellent choices. They add a wonderful texture and a subtle nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy and fruity layers in the cake.

How long does the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe take to prepare?

Preparation is quick and easy, taking about 15 minutes to assemble before baking it for 40 to 45 minutes. This makes it a fantastic dessert for last-minute gatherings or cozy weekends.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and joyful about the simplicity and flavor of the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe. It’s a dessert that invites you to dig in, share, and savor the sweet moments with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own classic. Happy baking and even happier tasting!

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