Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dump cake is easy to make and packed with flavor! The creamy cheesecake filling adds richness, while the strawberry pie filling provides a sweet and tangy contrast. The cake mix topping bakes to a golden, buttery perfection, giving the dessert a wonderful texture. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, holiday event, or just for a simple weeknight treat, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter, sliced into thin pats
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Then, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers.
- Add Butter: Arrange the thin slices of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Different Pie Fillings: Swap out the strawberry pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake for a strawberry-chocolate cheesecake combination.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds per serving, or warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick, jam-like consistency.
2. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! White, butter, or even strawberry cake mix can be used for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm it up before serving.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.
5. Can I add whipped cream or ice cream?
Definitely! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes this dessert even better.
6. Do I need to mix the cake mix with eggs and oil?
No, just sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the filling—it will bake perfectly with the butter on top.
7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
8. What if I don’t have a 9x13-inch baking dish?
You can use a similar-sized dish, but adjust the baking time if the cake layer is thicker or thinner.
9. How do I prevent a dry topping?
Make sure the butter is evenly distributed on top to ensure the cake mix bakes into a golden crust.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for about 2-3 hours, or until bubbly.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy, decadent dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With its sweet and creamy layers, buttery topping, and warm, gooey texture, it’s a dessert that everyone will love. Whether served fresh out of the oven or chilled, this dump cake is a must-try!
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberry pie filling, and a buttery cake mix topping. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, this warm and gooey treat is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with whipped cream or ice cream for an irresistible finish!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter, sliced into thin pats
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the pie filling. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top.
- Add Butter: Arrange the thin slices of butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Pie Filling Variations: Try cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds before baking.
- Chocolate Twist: Use a chocolate cake mix for a strawberry-chocolate combo.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon to the cake mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American