Step-by-step instructions
Now let’s dive into the preparation! Here’s how to make this scrumptious dessert:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
- Evenly spread the cubed cream cheese across the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the melted butter over the cream cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the butter and cream cheese.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the sweet strawberry mixture over the cake mix layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it’s golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an opportunity to get creative! You can enjoy it warm straight from the oven, adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It also pairs beautifully with whipped cream or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake stays delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days, but trust me; it might not last that long! If you need to freeze it, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Pro chef tips
For that perfectly creamy texture, consider letting your cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least an hour before you begin. If you’re short on time, microwave it in 10-second intervals until softened. Also, avoid over-mixing the strawberry mixture; you want those lovely strawberry pieces intact for delicious bursts of flavor!
Creative twists
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is versatile; you can easily make it your own! Use a flavored cake mix like lemon or chocolate for a new twist. You might even try adding a layer of crushed graham crackers for a true cheesecake experience. For a seasonal feel, swap strawberries for peaches or apples during their peak seasons.
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, followed by 45-50 minutes of baking.
2. Can I substitute the fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits like peaches, blueberries, or raspberries. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
This delightful dessert is not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next gathering!
