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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

 

 

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, fresh strawberries

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    • Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling, spreading them out evenly.
  4. Prepare Cake Mix Crumble:
    • In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and strawberry cake mix until well combined and crumbly.
  5. Assemble the Cake:
    • Sprinkle the cake mix mixture evenly over the cream cheese and strawberry layers in the baking dish.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Serve:
    • Serve warm, optionally topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Optional Tips:

  • Variations: Experiment with different flavors of cake mix or pie filling for a unique twist.
  • Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving if desired.
  • Presentation: Garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

Enjoy this delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, perfect for any occasion with its rich flavors of strawberries and creamy cheesecake!

Here are some tips to make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake even more delightful:

  1. Fresh Ingredients:
    • Use fresh strawberries for garnish and consider using fresh strawberries in the pie filling for added flavor and texture.
  2. Enhance the Cream Cheese Layer:
    • Add a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle citrus flavor that complements strawberries well.
  3. Add Texture with Nuts or Oats:
    • Mix chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) or rolled oats into the cake mix topping for added texture and crunch.
  4. Use Homemade Cake Mix:
    • If preferred, make your own strawberry cake mix from scratch for a more homemade taste.
  5. Layer with Graham Cracker Crumbs:
    • Sprinkle a layer of graham cracker crumbs between the strawberry pie filling and cream cheese mixture for a cheesecake-like crust.
  6. Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce:
    • Serve the dump cake with a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce or syrup for extra strawberry flavor.
  7. Experiment with Different Flavors:
    • Try using different flavors of pie filling such as mixed berries or raspberry for variety.
  8. Serve with Ice Cream:
    • Serve warm dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
  9. Adjust Sweetness:
    • Taste the pie filling and adjust the sweetness by adding a sprinkle of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice as needed.
  10. Decorate Creatively:
    • Arrange fresh strawberry slices in a decorative pattern on top of the whipped cream for an attractive presentation.
  11. Infuse with Almond Extract:
    • Add a drop or two of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
  12. Layer with Fresh Berries:
    • Add fresh raspberries or blueberries along with the strawberry pie filling for a mixed berry cheesecake dump cake.
  13. Serve Chilled:
    • Refrigerate the dump cake for a few hours before serving for a chilled dessert option during warmer months.
  14. Sprinkle with Cinnamon or Nutmeg:
    • Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix topping for a warm, comforting flavor.
  15. Individual Servings:
    • Bake the dump cake in individual ramekins for personalized portions and easy serving.

By incorporating these tips, you can elevate the flavors and presentation of your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, making it even more delightful for yourself and your guests!

Here are 20 secrets to achieve just that:

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients:
    • Opt for fresh strawberries, high-quality cream cheese, and a good brand of strawberry cake mix for the best taste.
  2. Adjust Sweetness:
    • Taste the strawberry pie filling and adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of sugar or lemon juice if needed.
  3. Enhance Cream Cheese Layer:
    • Add a splash of lemon juice or a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
  4. Layer with Graham Crackers:
    • Sprinkle crushed graham crackers between layers for a cheesecake-like crust and added texture.
  5. Use Unsalted Butter:
    • Melt unsalted butter for the cake mix topping to control the saltiness and ensure a balanced flavor.
  6. Add Nutty Crunch:
    • Mix chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) into the cake mix topping for extra texture and flavor.
  7. Sprinkle with Oats:
    • Incorporate rolled oats into the cake mix for a hearty, slightly chewy texture.
  8. Drizzle with Strawberry Syrup:
    • Serve with a drizzle of homemade strawberry syrup or sauce for extra strawberry goodness.
  9. Infuse with Almond Extract:
    • Add a drop or two of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle nutty undertone.
  10. Layer with Fresh Berries:
    • Add fresh raspberries or blueberries along with the strawberry pie filling for a mixed berry twist.
  11. Experiment with Spice:
    • Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake mix topping for warm, comforting notes.
  12. Blend with Vanilla Bean:
    • Use vanilla bean paste or scrape vanilla beans into the cream cheese mixture for a gourmet touch.
  13. Use Homemade Cake Mix:
    • Make your own strawberry cake mix from scratch for a more personalized flavor profile.
  14. Serve with Ice Cream:
    • Pair warm dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
  15. Garnish Creatively:
    • Top with whipped cream and arrange fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves for an appealing presentation.
  16. Add a Touch of Maple Syrup:
    • Drizzle a small amount of maple syrup over the cake before serving for a subtle sweetness.
  17. Layer with Creamy Yogurt:
    • Mix a bit of Greek yogurt into the cream cheese layer for added creaminess and tang.
  18. Adjust Consistency:
    • If the cake mix topping is too dry, add a bit more melted butter until it forms a crumbly texture.
  19. Let it Settle:
    • Allow the dump cake to cool slightly after baking to let the flavors meld together before serving.
  20. Individual Servings:
    • Bake mini versions of the dump cake in individual ramekins for a charming presentation and portion control.

By incorporating these secrets, you’ll be able to create a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and visual appeal, perfect for any occasion!

Here are answers to some of the most popular questions related to making Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:

  1. What is a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • A Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a dessert made by layering strawberry pie filling, a cream cheese mixture, and a cake mix topping, then baking until golden and bubbly.
  2. How do you make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • To make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, layer strawberry pie filling in a baking dish, top with a mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, and then sprinkle with a cake mix combined with melted butter. Bake until golden brown.
  3. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
    • Yes, you can use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling. Simply slice the strawberries and layer them evenly in the baking dish.
  4. How can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
    • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, or adjust the amount of sugar in the cake mix topping.
  5. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
    • Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix such as vanilla, lemon, or even chocolate for variations in flavor.
  6. Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the dump cake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is convenient for preparing ahead of parties or gatherings.
  7. How do I store leftovers of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving if desired.
  8. Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • It is not recommended to freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake as it may affect the texture and consistency upon thawing.
  9. What size baking dish should I use?
    • Use a 9×13-inch baking dish for this recipe to ensure even baking and layering of ingredients.
  10. How long does Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake take to bake?
    • Bake the dump cake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
  11. Do I need to refrigerate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake after baking?
    • Yes, refrigerate any leftover dump cake to maintain freshness due to the dairy content in the cream cheese layer.
  12. What can I serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh strawberries on top for added flavor and presentation.
  13. Is Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake gluten-free?
    • No, this recipe typically uses cake mix which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  14. Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake without cream cheese?
    • The cream cheese layer is a key component of this recipe for its cheesecake-like flavor and texture. Omitting it will change the dish significantly.
  15. How can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake healthier?
    • Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat cream cheese, and reduce the amount of butter and sugar in the recipe.
  16. Can I use a different type of pie filling?
    • Yes, you can use different flavors of pie filling such as blueberry, cherry, or apple for variations in flavor.
  17. Can I add nuts or oats to the cake mix topping?
    • Yes, adding chopped nuts or rolled oats to the cake mix topping can add texture and flavor to the dump cake.
  18. How do I prevent the cake mix topping from becoming too dry?
    • Ensure the melted butter is evenly distributed and use a fork to mix the cake mix until it forms a crumbly texture before sprinkling it over the layers.
  19. Can I use a different type of cake mix topping?
    • Yes, you can use a yellow cake mix, white cake mix, or even a spice cake mix for variations in flavor.
  20. How can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake egg-free?
    • This recipe typically does not include eggs in the main ingredients, so it is naturally egg-free.
  21. Can I use whipped cream cheese instead of block cream cheese?
    • Yes, you can use whipped cream cheese, but note that it may have a slightly different texture compared to block cream cheese.
  22. Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?
    • Yes, you can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or erythritol in place of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture.
  23. What should I do if the cake mix topping is too wet?
    • If the cake mix topping is too wet, add a bit more cake mix until it reaches a crumbly consistency.
  24. Can I add fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture?
    • Yes, adding fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavor of the cream cheese mixture and complement the strawberries.
  25. How can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake nut-free?
    • Omit nuts from the cake mix topping and ensure all other ingredients used are free from nuts and cross-contamination.
  26. Can I use homemade strawberry pie filling instead of canned?
    • Yes, you can make homemade strawberry pie filling using fresh strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch if preferred.
  27. How can I make the cake mix topping more crispy?
    • Bake the dump cake until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed in the cake mix topping.
  28. Can I use reduced-fat butter or margarine instead of unsalted butter?
    • It’s recommended to use unsalted butter for its flavor and consistency in this recipe. Margarine may alter the texture and taste.
  29. How do I prevent the cream cheese mixture from sinking into the pie filling?
    • Spoon the cream cheese mixture gently over the pie filling and avoid spreading it too vigorously to prevent sinking.
  30. Can I add a layer of chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the dump cake?
    • Yes, adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cocoa powder between layers can add a chocolatey twist to the dump cake.
  31. How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?
    • The dump cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Use a toothpick inserted into the cake mix topping to check for doneness.
  32. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
    • Yes, you can use whipped topping (like Cool Whip) instead of whipped cream for convenience.
  33. Can I use a different extract instead of vanilla extract?
    • Yes, you can use almond extract, lemon extract, or another extract that complements the flavors of strawberries and cream cheese.
  34. How can I make the cake mix topping more fluffy?
    • Ensure the cake mix is evenly distributed and gently pat it down with a fork to create an even layer over the cream cheese mixture.
  35. Can I add a layer of caramel sauce to the dump cake?
    • Yes, drizzling caramel sauce between layers or over the top of the dump cake can add a caramelized sweetness.
  36. Can I make individual servings of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
    • Yes, you can divide the ingredients among individual ramekins or baking dishes for personalized servings.
  37. How do I prevent the edges of the dump cake from burning?
    • Cover the edges of the baking dish with foil during baking if you notice them browning too quickly.
  38. How can I make the dump cake more moist?
    • Ensure the pie filling is spread evenly and the cake mix topping is not overly compacted to allow moisture to distribute evenly during baking.
  39. Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker by layering ingredients and cooking on low for 3-4 hours or until done.
  40. How can I make the dump cake more festive for holidays?
    • Decorate the top with seasonal sprinkles, garnish with fresh mint leaves, or arrange strawberries in a festive pattern before serving.

These questions and answers cover a wide range of topics related to making and customizing Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, helping you to troubleshoot and enhance your baking experience!