There’s nothing quite like the moment you pull a warm, decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from the oven, its luscious layers waiting to be sliced. This delightful dessert combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake with the sweetness of strawberries, all enveloped in a soft cake base. In just about an hour, you can create a dessert that is both simple and impressive, making it a go-to choice for gatherings and family dinners.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Ideal for summer barbecues, birthday parties, or simply as a sweet treat any day of the week, this dump cake is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Store it covered in the fridge for up to three days, making it a delightful make-ahead dessert option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of creamy cheesecake and strawberry flavors creates a deliciously satisfying bite.
- The layer of cake captures all the juices, leading to a moist and flavorful dessert.
- You can utilize fresh or frozen strawberries, making it adaptable year-round.
- It requires minimal prep, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dessert:
For the Strawberries
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (you can substitute with frozen strawberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened (low-fat cream cheese works well too)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or gluten-free cake mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup milk (almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Note: Use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap fresh strawberries for frozen ones.
- Use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option.
- Substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free version.
- Low-fat cream cheese can replace regular cream cheese.
How to Make It
Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
2. Prepare the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices, which will enhance the flavor of your cake.
3. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the luscious cheesecake layer of your dump cake.
4. Combine Cake Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, milk, and salt. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
5. Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pour half of the cake batter at the bottom. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the batter, followed by the marinated strawberries. Finally, pour the remaining cake batter on top, ensuring it covers the strawberries and cream cheese evenly.
6. Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your dessert from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, not recommended for best texture.
Reheat: Microwave in 15-second intervals until warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Allow the strawberries to sit to maximize their flavor.
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Serve at family gatherings or summer picnics for a crowd-pleaser.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh mint for a fresh presentation.
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