Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake! This delightful treat combines the luscious flavors of strawberries and creamy cheesecake in a super simple way that anyone can master. Honestly, if you’re looking for an easy dessert that’s packed with flavor, this is it! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer picnic, and it was an instant hit. The best part? It requires minimal prep—just dump, bake, and enjoy! The smell of strawberries mingling with buttery cake while it bakes is absolutely heavenly. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (You can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand!)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened (Let it sit out for a bit to make mixing easier!)
- 1 cup sugar (This adds just the right amount of sweetness!)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (A splash of citrus brightens up the flavors!)
- 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (The base of our delicious cake!)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (Mmm, buttery goodness!)
- 1 cup milk (Whole milk works best, but any kind you have will do!)
How to Prepare the Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Preparing the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake is as easy as it gets! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dessert that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. I promise, it’s a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important to get that perfect bake!
- Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix them together until the mixture is nice and smooth. You don’t want any lumps here, so take your time!
- Now, it’s time to layer those beautiful strawberries! Spread the sliced strawberries evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure they’re spread out well; this is where all that juicy flavor comes from!
- Pour that luscious cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it evenly. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every bit of strawberry. It’ll all come together in the baking process!
- In another bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and milk until everything is well combined. The batter will be thick, and that’s just how we want it!
- Now for the fun part—pour the cake batter over the cream cheese layer. Resist the urge to mix it! Just let it sit on top; the magic will happen in the oven.
- Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Just imagine that golden crust forming—it’s a sight to behold!
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the dish for a bit before serving. This helps all those flavors meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make—just dump and bake!
- Deliciously combines the flavors of strawberries and cheesecake for a delightful taste experience.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy celebrations.
- Minimal prep time means you can whip it up in a flash—great for last-minute dessert cravings!
- One pan means easy cleanup—less stress, more enjoyment!
- Customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings for a unique twist every time.
- Serves a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you nail it every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference!
- Use ripe strawberries: Sweet, ripe strawberries will make all the difference in flavor. If they’re in season, go for it! If not, frozen strawberries can work as a great substitute—just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- Soften that cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is really softened before mixing. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut it into small cubes and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds! Just don’t let it melt.
- Grease the pan well: Use a good non-stick spray or butter to grease your baking dish. This will help the cake release easily after baking, so you don’t lose any of that deliciousness!
- Don’t overmix the batter: When you mix the cake batter, just combine until all the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
- Let it cool: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes in the pan before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
- Try different toppings: While whipped cream is fabulous, don’t be afraid to experiment! Fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar can take it to the next level.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress everyone with your delicious strawberry cheesecake dump cake. Happy baking!
Variations
The beauty of the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake lies in its versatility! You can easily switch things up to suit your mood or whatever fruits you have on hand. Here are some of my favorite variations that I think you’ll love:
- Mixed Berry Delight: Swap out the strawberries for a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. The combination adds a burst of flavor and color that’s just stunning!
- Peachy Cream Cheese: Use fresh or canned peaches instead of strawberries for a summery twist. The sweet, juicy peaches pair beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a layer of chocolate chips between the strawberries and cream cheese mixture. A little chocolate never hurt anyone, right?
- Pineapple Paradise: For a tropical vibe, replace strawberries with crushed pineapple. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture!
- Nutty Banana: Slice up some ripe bananas and layer them on top of the strawberries. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Apple Cake: Swap in diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy fall-inspired dessert. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a real treat!
These variations are just a starting point! Feel free to get creative and mix in your favorite flavors. The ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake is all about making it your own—so have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake (trust me, it’s hard to resist!), you’ll want to know how to keep those leftovers fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat your scrumptious dessert!
To store, simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before covering it up, so you don’t end up with condensation!
If you want to savor the flavors later, you can also freeze the cake! Just slice it up first and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and it’ll be just as tasty as the day you made it!
When it comes time to reheat, you can pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This warms it up nicely without making it dry. If you prefer it warm and a bit crispy, just place a slice in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overheat!
And voila! Your ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake is ready to be enjoyed again. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the second time around. Happy snacking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake! While it’s important to enjoy desserts, it’s also good to know what’s in them. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per slice (assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your dietary needs or preferences. Enjoying this delicious dessert in moderation is key! Happy baking and indulging!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the cake. They’ll still give you that delicious flavor!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You’ll want to look for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes. Just watch it closely towards the end!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make it ahead! Just bake it, let it cool, and then cover it well. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It tastes delicious even after a day or two!
What should I serve with this cake?
While it’s scrumptious on its own, I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries on top are a nice touch too!
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
You bet! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like chocolate or lemon cake mix. Each will give a unique twist to the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake!
The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Made Easy!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This is the ultimate strawberry cheesecake dump cake recipe. It combines the flavors of strawberries and cheesecake in a simple, easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the sliced strawberries in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries evenly.
- In another bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and milk until well combined.
- Pour the cake batter over the cream cheese layer without mixing.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for extra flavor.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake dump cake, easy dessert, cake recipe
