Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich taste of cheesecake with the delightful sweetness of strawberries, then you’ve come to the right place! This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is not only simple to make but also a big crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something sweet after dinner on a busy weeknight, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. The layers of luscious cream cheese and juicy strawberries create a heavenly treat that everyone will love.

What makes this dump cake truly special is its ease. It’s perfect for those who might feel intimidated by traditional cheesecake recipes. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the flavors of strawberries and cream cheese—it’s a hit for all ages!
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm or cold, with whipped cream or fresh mint; it adapts to any occasion beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dessert in advance and let it sit in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, saving you time on special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! They are simple, wholesome staples that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe:

For the Fruit Layer

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (or 1 cup strawberry preserves)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Layer

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

For the Cake Layer

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or gluten-free cake mix)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• Whipped cream
• Fresh mint leaves
• Chocolate shavings

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Use Different Fruits: Swap out strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a new flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch.
• Make It Chocolatey: Mix in chocolate chips with the cream cheese layer for an indulgent touch.
• Try Different Extracts: Substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine your sliced strawberries with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step allows the strawberries to release their juices, creating a deliciously sweet base for your dump cake.

Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. This mixture adds that rich cheesecake flavor that pairs so well with the strawberries.

Step 4: Layer Your Ingredients

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and start layering! First, spread the strawberries evenly at the bottom. Next, dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberries. The combination of these layers creates an amazing contrast in flavors.

Step 5: Add Cake Mix

Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over your layered fruit and cream cheese. Don’t worry about spreading it too perfectly—this dump cake is all about being easy!

Step 6: Drizzle with Butter and Milk

Now comes the fun part! Drizzle melted butter over everything and pour milk across the top of the cake mix. This helps create that beautiful crumb as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This short wait makes slicing much easier—and trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert; it’s sure to be a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a breeze, but these pro tips will ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, opt for high-quality preserves for a similar taste.
• Soften cream cheese adequately: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth consistency, preventing any lumps in your cheesecake layer.
• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing the dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set properly and makes serving easier. This also enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with gluten-free options: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, using a gluten-free cake mix can make this dessert accessible without compromising on taste.
• Serve warm or chilled: Depending on your preference, this dessert can be enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat on hot days.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

This delightful dump cake is not only easy to prepare but also versatile in its presentation. Here are some ideas to make your serving special!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich cheesecake flavor beautifully.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint brightens the presentation and adds a hint of freshness to each bite.
• Chocolate shavings: For those who love chocolate, sprinkling some shavings on top brings an indulgent twist to this dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing! The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm dump cake and enhances its sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance and adds color to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a nutritious side dish that’s great for breakfast or brunch alongside your dump cake.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Pairing this dessert with a cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting finish that complements the flavors of the dump cake.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will not only taste divine but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy its delightful flavors even days later. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dump cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the dump cake into individual portions before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the desired slice and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version. This will allow everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert.

How long does Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your dump cake can last up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s covered well to maintain its freshness!

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable! Just thaw them completely, drain excess liquid, and follow the recipe as directed.

What toppings pair well with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe?

Whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, or chocolate shavings are all fantastic options that elevate this dessert even more!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! It’s a delightful dessert that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it on your own, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!