Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity sweetness of strawberries. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a party, or just a simple treat to enjoy at home. The concept of a dump cake is exactly as it sounds: you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. This convenience, combined with the mouthwatering taste, has made dump cakes a popular choice among dessert enthusiasts.

The popularity of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake has soared due to its simplicity and delicious flavor profile. The recipe typically involves a strawberry cake mix, cream cheese, strawberry pie filling, and a few other basic ingredients. The result is a dessert that is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix: This will form the base and crumble topping of the cake.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps to create a crispy topping.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Provides the creamy cheesecake layer.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
• 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling: Adds a fruity, juicy layer to the cake.
• Optional toppings: Whipped cream and fresh strawberries for serving.

These ingredients combine to create a layered dessert that’s both rich and fruity. For variations and substitutions, consider using different pie fillings or adding extras like white chocolate chips.

Required Equipment

To prepare your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you will need the following equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This is the standard size for this recipe, providing ample space for the layers to bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the cream cheese mixture and one for the cake mix and butter combination.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer: Essential for beating the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Spatula or spoon: Useful for spreading the cream cheese mixture and the strawberry pie filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you use the correct amounts of each ingredient.
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat and Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake evenly, ensuring that both the cake mix topping and the cheesecake layer cook properly.
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Use butter or non-stick cooking spray to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the dish and to make it easier to serve once baked.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. This will form the rich cheesecake layer of your dump cake.

Layering the Ingredients

1. Strawberry Pie Filling: Spread one can (21 ounces) of strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer provides the fruity base of the cake.
2. Cream Cheese Dollops: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Try to distribute the dollops evenly across the surface, but there’s no need to spread them out perfectly; they will melt and spread during baking.
3. Cake Mix and Butter: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the strawberry cake mix. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. According to Insanely Good Recipes, ensuring the butter is well-incorporated with the cake mix helps achieve a crisp, golden topping. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture evenly over the cream cheese dollops and strawberry filling.

Baking Instructions

1. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. As noted by The Girl Inspired, you may want to cover the cake with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking if the top is browning too quickly.
2. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. For an extra touch, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Tips for Perfect Dump Cake

Choosing the Right Cake Mix

Selecting the appropriate cake mix is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. Opt for a strawberry cake mix to enhance the fruity flavor and complement the strawberry pie filling. According to Insanely Good Recipes, it’s best to choose a mix that doesn’t contain pudding, as it can alter the texture of the cake. If you prefer a different flavor, a white or vanilla cake mix works well, providing a neutral base that lets the strawberry and cream cheese flavors shine.

Ensuring Smooth Cream Cheese

For a creamy and smooth cheesecake layer, it is essential to ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, resulting in a smoother mixture. Using an electric mixer can help achieve a velvety texture without lumps. As The Girl Inspired suggests, beating the cream cheese mixture until it is completely smooth is key to avoiding any unappetizing lumps in your cake. Additionally, incorporating the cream cheese mixture evenly across the strawberry filling will create a consistent layer throughout the cake.

Butter Distribution Techniques

Proper butter distribution is vital for achieving a crispy, golden topping on your dump cake. There are a few techniques to ensure even coverage:

1. Melted Butter Method: Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the cake mix until it forms a crumbly texture. This ensures that the butter is evenly distributed throughout the topping.
2. Grated Butter Method: Alternatively, you can freeze the butter and then grate it over the cake mix.

Serving Suggestions

Toppings

Enhance the flavors and presentation of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake with a variety of toppings:

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich, creamy layers of the cake. It also provides a beautiful contrast in color and texture.
• Fresh Strawberries: Sliced or whole fresh strawberries not only boost the fruity flavor but also add a vibrant, fresh touch. They make the dessert look more appealing and sophisticated.
• Ice Cream: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold ice cream melting over the warm cake creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to please any dessert lover.

Presentation Tips

• Layer Visibility: Use a clear glass baking dish to showcase the beautiful layers of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake. This makes the dessert visually appealing even before serving.
• Garnish: Add a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.
• Serving Style: Cut the cake into neat squares and serve on dessert plates. This not only makes the dessert look more refined but also makes it easier for guests to enjoy.
• Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, consider serving the cake in individual ramekins. This approach is great for dinner parties and special occasions, ensuring each guest receives a perfectly portioned dessert.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers

Proper storage of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ensures it remains fresh and delicious for days. After allowing the cake to cool completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store the cake in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to five days, as suggested by Desserts on a Dime. Keeping the cake chilled helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents spoilage.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake again, there are a few simple reheating methods to ensure it tastes just as good as when it was freshly baked:

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the desired portion of the cake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through. This method is ideal for maintaining the cake’s texture, as noted by Insanely Good Recipes.
• Microwave Method: For a quicker option, place a single serving of the cake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 1 minute, or until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as the cake can become tough if microwaved for too long. The Girl Inspired recommends this method for its convenience.

Variations and Substitutions

Using Different Pie Fillings

One of the great things about a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is its versatility. You can easily switch out the strawberry pie filling for other fruit fillings to create different flavors. Here are some delicious alternatives:

• Cherry Pie Filling: A classic choice that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake layer. The tartness of cherries balances the sweetness of the cake mix.
• Blueberry Pie Filling: Offers a sweet and slightly tart flavor that complements the cheesecake beautifully. Insanely Good Recipes suggests trying this combination for a fresh twist.
• Apple Pie Filling: Adds a warm, comforting flavor, especially when paired with a cinnamon-spiced cake mix.
• Peach Pie Filling: A summertime favorite that brings a bright, juicy sweetness to the cake. 4 Sons ‘R’ Us recommends experimenting with different fruit fillings to keep the recipe exciting.

Alternative Cake Mixes

While a strawberry cake mix is traditionally used, other cake mixes can also yield delicious results:

• Vanilla or White Cake Mix: Provides a neutral base that allows the flavors of the fruit and cheesecake to shine through. This is a great option if you want to highlight the fruit filling.
• Chocolate Cake Mix: For a rich, decadent twist, try using a chocolate cake mix. This pairs especially well with cherry or raspberry pie filling, creating a flavor reminiscent of black forest cake.
• Lemon Cake Mix: Adds a zesty, citrusy flavor that works wonderfully with blueberry or raspberry fillings. The Girl Inspired mentions that experimenting with different cake mixes can lead to delightful new flavor combinations.

Dietary Adjustments

For those with dietary restrictions, there are several adjustments you can make to create a gluten-free or vegan version of this cake:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free cake mixes that work just as well as traditional ones. Insanely Good Recipes suggests looking for high-quality gluten-free options to maintain the cake’s texture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cream cheese. Use a vegan butter substitute in place of regular butter. Additionally, make sure your cake mix is vegan; many standard cake mixes contain dairy or eggs, so check the labels carefully. Desserts on a Dime offers tips on finding suitable vegan substitutes.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, making it a treat best enjoyed in moderation. On average, a single serving (approximately 1/8th of the cake) contains around 320-350 calories. This estimate can vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients used and any optional toppings added, such as whipped cream or fresh strawberries.

Key Nutritional Aspects

In addition to its caloric content, the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake provides a variety of other nutritional components:

• Fats: The cake is high in fats due to the butter and cream cheese. A serving typically contains about 20 grams of fat, with saturated fats making up a significant portion. Saturated fats should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Carbohydrates: Each serving contains approximately 40-45 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the cake mix and the strawberry pie filling. This includes sugars, which contribute to the cake’s sweet flavor.
• Protein: The cream cheese provides a modest amount of protein, with each serving offering around 3-5 grams.
• Calcium: Thanks to the dairy content, the cake provides some calcium, which is important for bone health.

FAQs

Do You Refrigerate Dump Cake?

Yes, it is important to refrigerate your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake after it has cooled to room temperature. Refrigeration helps preserve the freshness and prevents bacterial growth, especially because of the cream cheese layer. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before placing it in the fridge.

Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time, making it a convenient option for parties and gatherings. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the unbaked cake tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake the cake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the cake, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the entire cake in the oven before serving.

How Long Does It Last?

When stored correctly in the refrigerator, your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can last up to five days. Ensure it is covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you have leftovers beyond this period, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.

What’s the Difference Between Dump Cake and Cobbler?

While both dump cakes and cobblers are fruit-based desserts, they have distinct differences:

• Dump Cake: Typically involves “dumping” ingredients like cake mix, butter, and pie filling into a baking dish without much mixing. The cake mix forms a crumbly, slightly crunchy topping as it bakes.
• Cobbler: Generally has a biscuit-like or cake-like topping spooned over the fruit filling. The topping can be a thick batter or dough that spreads and bakes into a more uniform, cake-like layer. Cobblers often require more preparation and mixing compared to dump cakes.

Do You Stir a Dump Cake?

No, you should not stir a dump cake. The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity: you layer the ingredients in a specific order and let them bake together without mixing. Stirring would disrupt the layering and affect the texture and final result.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy and delightful dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and cake. This recipe features a rich, creamy layer of cheesecake mixed with the fruity sweetness of strawberry pie filling, all topped with a crumbly, buttery cake mix.

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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

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Instructions

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

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling.

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and strawberry cake mix until well combined and crumbly.

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.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired.

Notes

• Ingredient Selection: Ensure you use a high-quality strawberry pie filling and a good brand of cake mix to achieve the best flavor. Opting for unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content, but salted butter can be used if you prefer a slightly salty contrast to the sweet layers.
• Preparation Tips: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. This helps create a smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
• Layering: When layering the ingredients, it’s important not to stir them together. The unique texture of a dump cake comes from the distinct layers of fruit filling, cheesecake, and crumbly cake topping.
• Baking: Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the rest of the cake to bake thoroughly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Cake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal per serving