This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and a buttery cake topping. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining rich flavors with a simple preparation method.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe brings together the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake in a fuss-free dump cake format. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether I'm hosting a gathering or craving a sweet treat, this dessert never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the strawberries by washing and slicing them. If desired, sprinkle a little sugar over them and let sit for 10 minutes to enhance their sweetness.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Spread the sliced strawberries evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it gently to cover the fruit layer.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, ensuring most of the surface is moistened.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 40-45 minutes, totaling around 1 hour from start to finish.
Variations
- Fruit Variations: I sometimes swap out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
- Cake Mix Options: While yellow cake mix is my go-to, white or vanilla cake mix also work well. For a more intense strawberry flavor, strawberry cake mix is a great choice.
- Add-Ins: Adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dump cake freezes well. I wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, I place a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert where ingredients are "dumped" into a baking dish without mixing, then baked. It's known for its ease and delicious results.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, I can use frozen strawberries. I make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
Do I need to mix the cake mix before adding it?
No, I sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the cream cheese layer. The butter drizzled on top will moisten it during baking.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I reheat it before serving for the best taste.
What can I serve with this dump cake?
I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a crowd-pleaser that's as simple to make as it is delicious. With its layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake topping, it's a dessert that I find myself returning to time and again. Whether for a special occasion or a casual get-together, it's sure to impress.
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake blends juicy strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery cake topping in a quick, fuss-free dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Wash and slice the strawberries. Optionally, sprinkle with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Spread the sliced strawberries evenly in the baking dish.
- Dollop and gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and edges are bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variation.
- White, vanilla, or strawberry cake mix can be substituted.
- Add chopped nuts or cinnamon for extra texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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