Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
Description:
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet. A simple, no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor, this cake features a luscious layer of fresh strawberries, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a buttery, golden cake topping. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a decadent dessert that tastes like it’s been hours in the making, when in reality, it takes just about an hour to bake. This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Spread the diced strawberries evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re distributed well for an even layer.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create the cheesecake-like filling.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the Cake Mix:
- Sprinkle the entire package of strawberry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese mixture. No need to stir—just let the dry cake mix sit on top.
- Drizzle with Butter:
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, making sure it covers as much of the mix as possible. This will help it turn golden brown while baking.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Reheating and Storage Tips:
- Storage: Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or heat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: This dump cake can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the cake, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed (about 45-50 minutes). If freezing after baking, cool the cake completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.
20 FAQs:
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, frozen strawberries work well, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid.
- Can I substitute the strawberry cake mix with another flavor? Absolutely! Vanilla, chocolate, or lemon cake mix would be delicious alternatives.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different flavor, though cream cheese is the most traditional choice.
- Can I make this cake without the cake mix? Yes, you can make a homemade cake batter, but using a cake mix keeps it simple and quick.
- What other fruit can I use instead of strawberries? Raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or cherries would be great substitutions.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat or fat-free cream cheese can be used for a lighter version of the cake.
- Can I add nuts to the cake? Yes, chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts can be sprinkled on top before baking for added texture.
- Can I use a sugar substitute for the powdered sugar? Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Swerve, though the texture and flavor may vary.
- Can I add vanilla extract to the cheesecake mixture? Yes, adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract would enhance the flavor.
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
- Can I use a different type of milk? Any type of milk, including almond milk or oat milk, will work in this recipe.
- How do I make the cake crustier? For a crustier texture, bake the cake a few extra minutes until the edges are more golden and crisp.
- Can I make this cake in a different-sized pan? Yes, but baking times may vary. If using a smaller pan, the cake will take longer to cook.
- How do I know when the cake is done? The top should be golden brown, and the edges should be bubbling. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Can I serve this cake cold? Yes, it can be served cold, but it’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk in place of the regular ingredients.
- Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, granulated sugar can replace powdered sugar, but you might need to adjust the texture slightly.
- How do I make this cake more indulgent? Top the cake with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra treat.
- Can I make this cake in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this in a slow cooker on low for about 2-3 hours. Just follow the same assembly steps.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? The recipe is not gluten-free if you use a standard cake mix. You can use a gluten-free cake mix as a substitute to make it gluten-free.
20 Best Tips to Make the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
- Make sure to grease your pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For an even creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Don’t skip the butter drizzle—this adds a golden, crispy top that enhances the flavor.
- Use a spatula to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberries for a smooth texture.
- Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
- Add a pinch of salt to the cake mix for a balanced sweet-savory flavor.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Make sure the cake mix is sprinkled evenly over the filling for a uniform texture.
- If you prefer a more intense strawberry flavor, add extra diced strawberries or a bit of strawberry jam to the mix.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
- Don’t overmix the cream cheese filling—just beat until smooth to avoid a runny consistency.
- For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate on top before baking.
- If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Don’t worry if the cake looks a little uneven after baking—its rustic charm is part of its appeal!
- Use a fork to fluff the cake topping after baking to create a lighter, airier texture.
- For a crunchier topping, use melted butter on top of the dry cake mix rather than drizzling it.
- Experiment with adding other fruits like blueberries or blackberries alongside the strawberries for a mixed berry dump cake.
- Make it ahead for parties or family gatherings—this easy dessert feeds a crowd and can be made in advance.
With these tips, you’ll master the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake and make it a beloved go-to dessert!
