Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Introduction
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake, the fruity sweetness of strawberries, and the buttery crunch of a classic dump cake topping. It is called a “dump cake” because the ingredients are simply “dumped” into a baking dish with little preparation, making it one of the easiest desserts to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or when you want a homemade dessert without the hassle of traditional cheesecake baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- Fresh strawberries and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layer the Filling
Spread strawberry pie filling evenly on the bottom of the dish. - Make Cheesecake Layer
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling. - Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers. Do not stir. - Add Butter
Drizzle melted butter evenly across the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible. - Add Nuts (Optional)
Sprinkle pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. - Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. - Cool and Serve
Allow to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
Methods
- Classic Dump Cake Method: Simply layer ingredients without mixing for the easiest version.
- Rich Cheesecake Method: Swirl the cream cheese layer gently into the strawberry filling for a marbled cheesecake effect.
- Crunchy Topping Method: Add crushed graham crackers or oats to the cake mix for extra texture.
- Lighter Method: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and less sugar for a lighter version.
History
The dump cake originated in the United States in the mid-20th century as an easy, no-fuss dessert. It became popular when boxed cake mixes were widely available and home bakers wanted simple recipes with minimal cleanup. Combining cheesecake flavors with dump cake is a modern twist, marrying the creamy luxury of cheesecake with the practicality of a dump cake.
Benefits
- Easy Preparation: Minimal effort, no mixing bowls required beyond the cream cheese mixture.
- Versatile: Can be customized with different pie fillings (cherry, blueberry, peach).
- Crowd-Friendly: Serves many, making it perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
- Balanced Flavors: Combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in one dish.
Formation
The dessert is formed by layering:
- Fruit Base – strawberry pie filling for sweetness and freshness.
- Cheesecake Layer – cream cheese mixture for richness.
- Cake Topping – dry cake mix and melted butter create a golden, crumbly crust.
Together, these layers bake into a cohesive dessert that is both simple and decadent.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is proof that a dessert can be both easy and indulgent. It captures the essence of cheesecake without the complexity of water baths or long baking times, while also delivering the nostalgic charm of a dump cake. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this dish is as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
For Lovers of Sweet Indulgence
This recipe is perfect for those who love strawberries, cheesecake, and quick desserts. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Lovers of rich, fruity, and creamy sweets will find this dump cake irresistible.