Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a cozy kitchen on a weekend afternoon, especially when the sweet aroma of baked strawberries fills the air. Picture this: your loved ones gathered around the table, laughter bubbling between bites, and the beautiful sight of a warm Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake at the center of it all. This dessert not only delights the senses but also packs in comfort and joy, making it a cherished favorite in our home.

If you’re searching for an easy-to-follow dessert that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen, you’ve landed in the right spot. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple and delightful way to enjoy the flavors of cheesecake intertwined with the bright, juicy notes of fresh strawberries. Let’s dive into how to create this comforting treat together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is everything you love about cheesecake, with the added bonus of being a simple one-pan dessert. It requires very little effort, making it perfect for busy families or anyone who loves a delicious homemade treat without the fuss.

The layers of creamy cheesecake filling, fruity strawberry pie, and tender cake come together in a magical way, resulting in a dessert that’s equally perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a sweet evening at home. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. It’s a dish that invites sharing, sparking delightful conversations and memories, making it more than just a meal—it’s a joyful experience.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Before we dive into creating your new favorite dessert, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need.

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 can strawberry pie filling
• 1 package cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
• Whipped cream (for topping, optional)

Ingredient Notes

• Cake Mix: A yellow cake mix provides a lovely base, but you could also experiment with vanilla or even lemon cake mixes for a twist.
• Fresh Strawberries: While we use fresh strawberries in this recipe, feel free to swap with frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.
• Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Sour Cream: This adds richness but can be replaced with Greek yogurt if desired.
• Sugar: You can adjust sugar levels to your taste, or try using a sugar substitute if you’re aiming for a healthier version.

How to Make It

It’s time to roll up our sleeves and bring this comforting dessert to life! Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

Step 1 – Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important as it ensures an even bake from the moment you pop the cake in.

Step 2 – Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth, velvety, and creamy. The aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen is a bonus!

Step 3 – Layer the Ingredients

Now, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom. Don’t be shy; spread it out as this layer will infuse the cake with that sweet strawberry flavor. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling, smoothing it out gently with a spatula.

Next, sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the creamy layer, making sure to cover it completely. Lastly, drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix evenly, ensuring every bit gets a taste of that buttery goodness. Finally, scatter the sliced fresh strawberries on top for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Step 4 – Bake

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and bubbly. The enticing aroma of strawberries and cake will fill your kitchen, pulling everyone in for a sneak peek.

Once it’s done, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the cream cheese filling, be careful not to overmix as this can introduce air bubbles that may cause the cake to collapse.
• Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly will help the flavors meld together and make for easier slicing.
• Serve Warm or Chilled: While this dump cake is fantastic served warm, it is also delicious served chilled, making it versatile for any season.
• Add Extra Fruit: For an even fruitier treat, feel free to mix in blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries for a colorful and delicious twist.

Recipe Variations

1. Berry Mix Version: Swap in mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries) alongside the strawberries for a mixed-berry version.
2. Lemon Zest Twist: Add some fresh lemon zest to your cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
3. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top before baking for an added crunch and depth.
4. Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled dump cake for a decadent chocolate-strawberry dessert.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Ideas

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake shines as a dessert, but consider these serving suggestions:

• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a fluffy finish—perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
• A La Mode: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a comforting dessert experience.
• Fruit Garnish: Fresh mint leaves or additional berry garnish can elevate the presentation for gatherings.

Storage and Freezing

To store your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|———————–|——–|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 39g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 220mg |

FAQ About Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Can I use different fruit fillings?

Absolutely! You can swap out the strawberry filling for other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or even peach. Just make sure to adjust the fresh fruit toppings accordingly to match!

Is there a way to make this healthier?

Certainly! You can use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version. Also, using a sugar substitute can help reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut yogurt instead of sour cream, and check for a dairy-free cake mix.

Can I use a different size baking dish?

If you don’t have a 9×13 inch dish, feel free to use a similar-sized dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need slight adjustments depending on the depth.

What can I serve this cake with?

This dump cake is delightful on its own or served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Adding fresh fruits as a garnish can also elevate the presentation.

In a Few Words

Cooking should be a joyful, rewarding experience, and this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake perfectly encapsulates that sentiment. Each bite tells a story of warmth, comfort, and togetherness, reminding us that the best moments are often those shared over a delicious meal.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe brings a smile to your face and fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is set to become a beloved recipe in your household. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dessert promises to deliver warm moments to cherish. So gather your loved ones, bake up some joy, and enjoy every sweet bite together!

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