Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful mix of flavors everyone will adore!

Indulging in a delicious dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you can create a scrumptious treat that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries with minimal effort. This cake is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a simple dessert to enjoy at home.

In this article, we will explore the key ingredients and their roles, preparation time, a detailed list of ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions with expert tips, presentation ideas, creative twists, a pro tip for customization, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe!

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Strawberries: The star of this recipe! Fresh or frozen strawberries provide sweetness and a burst of flavor. They also contribute moisture to the cake.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a creamy texture, giving the cake its cheesecake flavor. It also helps to balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
Yellow Cake Mix: Serves as the base of the dump cake, providing structure and a light, fluffy texture.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake layer and enhances the strawberry flavor.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together, providing structure and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting the top of the cake, giving it a sweet finishing touch.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Ingredients of “Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake”

For the Strawberry Layer:

4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Cake Layer:

1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup water

For Serving:

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Whipped cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Toss well to coat the strawberries with sugar.
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, letting the strawberries release their juices.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
Add the egg and beat until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and water. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Dump Cake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cake batter, ensuring an even distribution.
Carefully dollop the cheesecake mixture over the strawberries. Use a spatula to spread it gently, but don’t worry about covering everything perfectly.
Pour the remaining cake batter over the top of the cheesecake layer. It doesn’t need to be completely covered.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

Use Fresh Strawberries: If possible, use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Don’t Overmix: When mixing the cake batter, stir until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.

Presentation Tips

Dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Serve individual portions with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry on top for a beautiful presentation.
Consider using a glass dish for baking to showcase the layers of strawberries and cheesecake.

Creative Twists

Berry Medley: Substitute strawberries with a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a berry dump cake.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving for an added indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the cake batter before baking for extra texture.

Pro Tip for Customization

Feel free to customize the cheesecake layer by adding different flavor extracts or mixing in a tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy twist. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips for a chocolate-strawberry combination that is sure to delight!

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?

Absolutely! You can use other fruits such as peaches, blueberries, or cherries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit.

Can I make “Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake” ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add powdered sugar before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Can I freeze “Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake”?

Yes, you can freeze the baked dump cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its luscious layers of strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and fluffy cake, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe, and enjoy a sweet treat that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Happy baking!