There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked dessert wafting through the kitchen, and trust me, the scent of this Ultimate Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is pure magic! The moment you pop it in the oven, you’ll be whisked away to a cozy bakery where the sweet, fruity notes dance in the air. Honestly, it’s hard to resist the temptation to sneak a taste before it’s even finished baking!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering where everyone was busy preparing their signature dishes. I wanted to make something that would impress without spending hours in the kitchen. And let me tell you, this strawberry cheesecake dump cake was the star of the show! The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and juicy strawberries, all topped with a buttery cake layer, is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to potlucks.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. You’ll find that it uses basic ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to for busy days. Plus, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together. You’ll see smiles all around as they dig into this luscious cake. So grab your baking dish and let’s get started on this amazing strawberry cheesecake dump cake that you’ll want to make again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this Ultimate Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just another dessert—it’s an experience! Having made this countless times for family and friends, I can confidently say that it ticks all the boxes for a perfect treat. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- Quick & Easy: This cake comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already, so no fancy grocery trips are needed!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, and you’ll be showered with compliments!
- Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and buttery cake create a flavor explosion that is pure comfort food.
What sets this recipe apart is its unique layering technique. Unlike traditional cheesecake, where you have to fuss with crusts and baking times, this dump cake simplifies everything. You’ll get that cheesecake flavor with a fraction of the effort. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving—you can throw in various fruits or even chocolate for a fun twist!
Imagine taking your first bite, the creamy texture melting in your mouth, and the sweet strawberry flavor bursting through. This dessert doesn’t just taste good; it feels good too. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, making it a must-try!
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delightful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- For the cheesecake layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- For the strawberry topping:
- 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
These ingredients are not just easy to find but also allow for substitutions if you need to. For instance, you can use gluten-free cake mix if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. I personally love using fresh strawberries when they’re in season; they add an incredible burst of flavor!
Equipment Needed
Before you dive into baking, here’s a quick rundown of the kitchen tools you’ll need:
- 9×13 inch baking dish or pan
- Mixing bowls (one for the cake mix and one for the cheesecake layer)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula for spreading
If you don’t have an electric mixer, don’t worry! A good old-fashioned whisk will work just fine. I’ve made this cake both ways and can assure you that the results are still delicious!
Preparation Method
Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your Ultimate Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Mix gently and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Mix the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, water, and eggs. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
- Layer the ingredients: Pour half of the cake batter into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Next, add the cheesecake layer on top, spreading it carefully to cover the cake batter.
- Add the strawberries: Spoon the prepared strawberries evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Top with remaining batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the strawberries and cheesecake, spreading it gently to cover.
- Bake: 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.
- Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.
If you notice the top browning too quickly, simply cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. And remember, the cake will puff up while baking, but it will settle as it cools!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tips to ensure your Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake turns out perfect every time:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Using frozen strawberries: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- Taste test your layers: Always taste your cheesecake layer before baking. Adjust sweetness with extra sugar if needed!
- Multitasking: While the cake is baking, clean up your kitchen. It’ll make the process feel much smoother!
These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the process enjoyable. Trust me, I’ve had my share of baking mishaps, but these little hacks have saved the day!
Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Berry Medley: Swap strawberries for a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent finish.
- Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, consider using pumpkin puree in the cheesecake layer for a seasonal spin.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based butter for a lactose-free version.
Feel free to experiment! Each variation can bring a new flavor profile that you and your family will love.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Trust me; it elevates the experience!
For storage, cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze portions in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving again. The flavors actually develop even more with time!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This dessert is not only delicious but can also be part of a balanced indulgence. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 4g
Strawberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dessert a little healthier than your average cake. They are rich in vitamin C and fiber, and when paired with cream cheese, you get a nice balance of protein and fat to keep you satisfied!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s bursting with flavor, this Ultimate Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a must-try! It’s perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized to fit your tastes. Honestly, I can’t get enough of it!
Feel free to share your own variations or experiences in the comments. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! And remember, the best part of baking is sharing it with others. So go ahead, whip up this delightful cake, and enjoy the smiles it brings!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
How long does this cake last in the refrigerator?
It will keep well for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese or even a thick coconut yogurt for a lighter option.
Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them just before baking to enjoy fresh out of the oven!
Pin This Recipe!
Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Ultimate Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines creamy cheesecake filling and juicy strawberries, all topped with a buttery cake layer, making it a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup water
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Mix gently and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, water, and eggs. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Add the cheesecake layer on top, spreading it carefully to cover the cake batter.
- Spoon the prepared strawberries evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Pour the remaining cake batter over the strawberries and cheesecake, spreading it gently to cover.
- 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.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cake mix. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 43
- Protein: 4
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, dump cake, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser
