why make this recipe
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delicious and easy dessert that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the lightness of cake. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and simple dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You can prepare it in just a few steps, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, the sweet and tangy strawberries add a fresh touch that everyone will love!
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
You can serve this cake warm or at room temperature. It’s lovely on its own, but you can also top it with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for an extra treat. This cake is perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy family night at home.
how to store Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
To store any leftovers, keep the cake covered in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
- You can add more fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
- Make sure to let the strawberries sit with sugar long enough to really enhance their flavor.
- If you’re short on time, using a store-bought cake mix saves you prep time.
variation
You can try this recipe with different fruits like blueberries or peaches instead of strawberries. If you want a chocolate twist, use chocolate cake mix and pair it with cream cheese and raspberries.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake. It may take a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and substitute the milk with almond or oat milk. This makes it deliciously dairy-free!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, milk, and salt. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- In a greased 9x13-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.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top, ensuring it covers the strawberries and cream cheese evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from oven and let cool for about 10-15 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
