Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fruity burst of fresh strawberries, all in a wonderfully simple dump cake format. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is how effortlessly it comes together. You can whip it up in just an hour, and trust me, your loved ones will be begging for seconds! Plus, it’s adaptable enough to suit various occasions, whether you’re hosting a picnic or enjoying a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: Just mix and layer the ingredients—no complicated steps here!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and serve it warm or chilled—whatever suits your fancy!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese is simply divine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful treat!

For the Fruit Layer

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

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

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

One of the best things about this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Use Different Fruits: Swap out strawberries for blueberries or peaches for a new flavor twist.
• Add a Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts or granola on top before serving for extra texture.
• Make it Chocolatey: Mix cocoa powder into the cake layer for a chocolate cheesecake delight.
• Try Different Cream Cheese Flavors: Use flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or vanilla, to enhance the taste even more!

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine your fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the strawberries to release their juices and become even more flavorful.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese with the remaining sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture will add that rich cheesecake flavor we all love!

Step 4: Layer Your Ingredients

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start by layering the strawberries at the bottom, then dollop that luscious cream cheese mixture on top. The layers create beautiful textures and flavors as they bake together.

Step 5: Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over your cream cheese layer. It creates an inviting topping that becomes golden and delicious during baking.

Step 6: Pour Over Butter and Milk

Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix and pour milk on top. This step helps create that dreamy texture we adore in dump cakes!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Place your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it turns golden brown on top—this is when you know it’s ready!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake to cool for about 10 minutes before digging in. This little waiting period makes sure every slice holds its shape beautifully.

Enjoy sharing this delightful dessert with family and friends—you might just find they ask for this recipe again!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Making a delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the cake a vibrant flavor and juicy texture that complements the creamy cheesecake layer beautifully. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, high-quality strawberry preserves can be a great alternative.

• Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture, avoiding lumps in your cheesecake layer.

• Don’t Skip the Butter: Drizzling melted butter over the cake mix is essential. It creates that golden-brown crust and infuses the cake with rich flavor as it bakes.

• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your dump cake around the 40-minute mark. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allowing your dump cake to cool for about 10 minutes makes it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Serving your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is all about presentation and enhancing its deliciousness. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream on top adds an airy lightness that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Chocolate Shavings: For those who love chocolate, adding shavings on top provides an elegant touch and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm dump cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cheesecake while adding freshness. Consider using seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries!
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements dessert beautifully, providing a comforting end to any meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly can serve as a refreshing side that offsets the indulgent sweetness of the dump cake.

Now you’re all set to whip up this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! Enjoy each bite with family and friends—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just delicious; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing as outlined below.

Freezing

• Allow the dump cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.
• For a crispier top, 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 delightful recipe!

Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing with sugar.

How do I make the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?

Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch!

Can I add other fruits to the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Whether you’re enjoying it at a gathering or as a special dessert at home, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings!