why make this recipe
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of strawberries. It is an easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t require any complicated steps. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious cake that is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or any special occasion. The combination of flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike!
how to make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced; you can substitute with frozen strawberries)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened; low-fat cream cheese works well too)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or gluten-free cake mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted; coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup milk (almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices, which will enhance the flavor of your cake.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the luscious cheesecake layer of your dump cake.
Step 4: Combine Cake Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, milk, and salt. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pour half of the cake batter at the bottom. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the batter, followed by the marinated strawberries. Finally, pour the remaining cake batter on top, ensuring it covers the strawberries and cream cheese evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
how to serve Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream on top for added indulgence. Fresh strawberries as a garnish can enhance its presentation and flavor.
how to store Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will stay good for about two months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Make sure your cream cheese is very soft to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar amount based on the ripeness of your strawberries.
- Experiment with different fruit toppings like blueberries or raspberries for a tasty twist.
variation
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. For a fruity variation, try adding a layer of sliced bananas or peaches along with the strawberries.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
A delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of strawberries, perfect for gatherings.
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced; frozen strawberries can be used)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or gluten-free cake mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup milk (almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix yellow cake mix, melted butter, milk, and salt in a large bowl until just combined.
- Pour half of the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the cream cheese mixture and marinated strawberries on top.
- Layer the remaining cake batter over the strawberries and cream cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature. Optional toppings include vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, dump cake, dessert, easy dessert, summer treat