Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

This easy strawberry pie dessert is the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and cake-like layers, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe yields 10 servings and is sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 can strawberry pie filling
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (15.25 ounce) box vanilla cake mix
  • 10 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by pouring the strawberry pie filling into it.

Step 2: Gently fold in the sliced fresh strawberries with the pie filling.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the strawberries and pie filling, spreading it out carefully.

Step 5: Spread the vanilla cake mix over the cream cheese layer, making sure not to mix the layers. The cake mix should form an even layer on top of the cream cheese mixture.

Step 6: Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer, ensuring it is fully covered.

Step 7: Bake the dessert in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 8: Allow the dessert to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 440
  • Total Fat: 23g (30% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 14g (68% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 75mg (25% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 525mg (23% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 55g (20% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 35g
  • Protein: 4g (9% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 17mg (18% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 133mg (10% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 112mg (2% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your specific calorie needs.

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweetness and freshness of strawberries, all topped with a buttery, golden cake mix. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting dessert at home. But what makes it even more special is its easy assembly and minimal ingredients. Lets dive into its history, regional variations, and fun facts!

History and Origin of Dump Cake

The concept of the dump cake originated in the United States in the 1980s, a time when convenience and time-saving recipes were highly appreciated. The term "dump cake" comes from the process of simply "dumping" ingredients like cake mix, fruit fillings, and butter into a baking dish without any need for mixing or elaborate preparation. These cakes quickly became popular for their simplicity, particularly among busy families and novice bakers. The strawberry cheesecake version of this classic dessert combines the flavors of a traditional cheesecake with the ease of a dump cake, making it a popular variation for summer gatherings and holidays.

Regional Variations

While the original dump cake is often made with canned fruit fillings like cherry, pineapple, or peach, the strawberry cheesecake dump cake has its own unique regional flair. In the United States, particularly in the South, variations of the dump cake include different fruit toppings or even cream cheese layers. Some regions prefer a more rustic take by adding fresh, local fruits, such as strawberries, to give it a more homemade feel. Other variations may include swapping the vanilla cake mix for a yellow cake or angel food cake mix for a lighter texture.

How is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Different from Other Cakes?

What sets strawberry cheesecake dump cake apart from traditional cakes is its effortless preparation and its distinctive layers. Most cakes require a lot of mixing, precise timing, and careful frosting. In contrast, dump cakes require very little effort. You simply layer the ingredients in the pan and bake. The cheesecake layer adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberry filling and the crunch of the cake topping, making it a unique hybrid between a cake and a cheesecake.

Where is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Typically Served?

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion where a sweet, indulgent dessert is needed. Its typically served at family gatherings, barbecues, holiday dinners, and potluck parties. Because it is easy to prepare in large quantities, it is ideal for serving groups. It is commonly enjoyed warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, but it can also be refrigerated and served chilled for a refreshing treat during hot summer months.

Interesting Facts about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

  • Despite its name, the dump cake requires no actual dumping! Its just a fun way to describe the method of layering ingredients into the pan without mixing.
  • The recipe can be adapted to fit dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free cake mix, dairy-free cream cheese, or even swap the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
  • This dessert can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. It actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavors have time to meld together.
  • Its a great dessert for those who are not experienced bakers but still want to make something that looks and tastes impressive.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that has become a favorite across the United States. Its ease of preparation, delicious layers, and versatility make it a go-to option for those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, this dessert is bound to be a hit at any gathering!

FAQ about Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Store the leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze individual servings for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven.

Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. You can also use other fruit pie fillings, such as cherry or blueberry, to change the flavor profile.

The cake mix provides convenience, but you can make your own cake batter from scratch if you prefer. The flavor and texture might vary, but you can achieve a similar result.

Yes, you can prepare the dump cake a day ahead. Once it's baked and cooled, store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best texture and flavor.

This recipe is designed for a 9x13-inch baking dish. If you use a different size, the cooking time may vary, and the texture of the cake could change.

Yes, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might not be as rich. The dish might also be a bit less creamy.

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

The dump cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the cake layer; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top of the cake mix before baking for extra crunch and flavor. You can also top it with whipped cream or ice cream when serving.

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not contain any meat products. However, if you're following a vegan diet, you'll need to make substitutions for the cream cheese and egg.

Comments

Stephanie Allen

06/18/2023 08:04:11 AM

I discovered that using just one can of strawberry pie filling didn't provide enough flavor. The cream cheese layer overshadowed it. Next time, I would definitely add another can for a more balanced taste.

Rebecca Davis

05/25/2024 09:34:19 PM

I followed the recipe exactly and used an 8 x 11 baking dish. The combination of strawberries and cheesecake just made my mouth water. As someone with diabetes, this probably shouldn't even be in my recipe collection, but it was a special "treat." It tasted even better after being refrigerated. I enjoyed it sparingly (keeping my diabetes in mind) and shared most of it with my neighbors, who absolutely loved it. I'm planning to freeze a portion as an experiment – we'll see how it turns out! 😄