Introduction
If you’re craving an effortless yet indulgent dessert, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the perfect solution! A delightful fusion of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake mix, this dessert is rich, fruity, and irresistibly gooey. The best part? It’s a dump cake, meaning minimal effort with maximum flavor—just layer the ingredients and bake!
Origin and Cultural Significance
Dump cakes originated in the United States as a quick and easy alternative to traditional baked desserts. Unlike traditional cakes that require precise mixing and measuring, dump cakes let you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, creating a hassle-free yet decadent treat. The addition of cheesecake filling in this version elevates the dish, combining the classic comfort of dump cake with the richness of a cheesecake.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional Additions
- White chocolate chips for added sweetness
- A sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth
- Almond or lemon extract for a flavor twist
- Crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake crust effect
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Do not overmix the layers—keeping them distinct creates the best texture.
- Spread the cake mix evenly over the top to ensure even baking.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix to create a perfect golden crust.
- Let the cake rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Dollop the cheesecake mixture over the strawberries and gently spread.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top (do not stir!).
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix to moisten it.
- Add sliced fresh strawberries on top for extra flavor.
4. Bake:
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful balance of sweet, creamy, and buttery textures. The cheesecake layer adds richness, while the strawberry filling brings a burst of fruity freshness. The crumbly golden cake topping ties it all together, making every bite utterly irresistible.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 30g
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, potluck, or just a sweet treat at home, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Recommendation
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and less butter. If you want more crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers on top before baking.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dessert a little healthier while keeping its delicious taste:
- Use sugar-free strawberry pie filling to reduce sugar content.
- Swap regular cake mix for a gluten-free or whole wheat cake mix.
- Replace powdered sugar with honey or a natural sweetener.
- Serve with Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream for added protein.