Name: The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake You’ll Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box of yellow cake mix; 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted; 1 can of strawberry pie filling; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Introduction to The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious dessert can feel like a daunting task. That’s where The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake comes in! This delightful treat combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fruity burst of strawberries, all in a simple, no-fuss recipe. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or satisfying that sweet tooth after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket!

Why You’ll Love This The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

This dessert is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike! It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family!

Ingredients for The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Let’s gather our ingredients for this scrumptious dessert! Here’s what you’ll need:

Yellow cake mix: This is the base of our dump cake, providing a light and fluffy texture. You can also use a flavored cake mix for a twist!
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture, helping to create that delightful golden crust.
Strawberry pie filling: This sweet and fruity filling is the star of the show, bringing that luscious strawberry flavor to the cake.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the cheesecake layer its creamy, dreamy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
Powdered sugar: This sweetener helps to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a smooth and sweet mixture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
Fresh strawberries: Sliced fresh strawberries are optional but highly recommended for a burst of freshness and color on top!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will wow your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the cake rise beautifully, giving you that perfect fluffy texture. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your cheesecake layer, so make sure there are no lumps. It should be velvety and inviting!

Step 3: Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling

Next, grab your greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom. This fruity layer is what makes this dump cake so special. The sweet, tangy strawberries will soak into the cake as it bakes, creating a delightful flavor combination.

Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture

Now, take spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture and drop them over the strawberry filling. Don’t worry about making it perfect; it’s all going to blend together beautifully in the oven. Just make sure to distribute it as evenly as possible for a balanced cheesecake flavor in every bite!

Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Time to sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top of the cream cheese layer. Use the entire box, and make sure it covers the mixture completely. This will create a lovely crust as it bakes, adding texture to your dessert. No need to mix it in; just let it sit on top!

Step 6: Drizzle with Butter

Now, take your melted butter and drizzle it generously over the cake mix. This step is essential because the butter will seep into the cake mix, creating that golden, crispy topping we all love. It’s like giving your cake a warm hug!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Trust me, the aroma will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let your cake cool slightly before serving. This will help it set up a bit more. If you’re feeling fancy, top it with fresh strawberries for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

Tips for Success

Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
Use a spatula to spread the strawberry pie filling evenly.
Don’t skip the butter drizzle; it’s key for that crispy topping!
Let the cake cool slightly before serving for better slicing.
For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake mix!

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking dish: A standard size for this recipe. You can also use a similar-sized casserole dish.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. Any size will do!
Hand mixer or whisk: For blending the cream cheese mixture smoothly. A fork can work in a pinch!
Spatula: Perfect for spreading and scooping. A rubber spatula is ideal for scraping every last bit!

Variations of The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Chocolate Lovers: Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a decadent twist!
Berry Medley: Use mixed berry pie filling instead of strawberry for a colorful and fruity variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary needs.
Low-Sugar Version: Opt for sugar-free strawberry pie filling and reduce the powdered sugar for a lighter dessert.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the cake mix for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Present in a beautiful dish to impress your guests!

FAQs about The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Got questions about The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you whip up this delightful dessert.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! You can use fresh strawberries, but you’ll need to add some sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling. This will help achieve that sweet, gooey layer we all love.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy that warm, comforting taste again!

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them in the baking dish. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!

What can I serve with this dump cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also serve it with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version, and you’re all set. Everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert!

Final Thoughts

Making The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The joy of pulling a warm, golden dessert from the oven, the aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your family’s faces as they take that first bite—priceless! This recipe is a delightful reminder that even on the busiest days, you can whip up something special with minimal effort. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!