Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling, gently spreading it but leaving some filling visible for a lovely presentation.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cheesecake and strawberry layers.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and you see bubbling around the edges.
- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is fantastic on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence. For a festive touch, consider dusting it with powdered sugar or topping it with fresh mint for color and flavor contrast.
How to store
To keep your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days. If you’ve made a larger batch and want to save some for later, you can also freeze it. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn, and it should keep for about 2-3 months. Remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending.
- Don’t skip the step of allowing the cake to cool before serving—it helps the layers to set up nicely and enhances the flavors.
- Feel free to amp up the strawberry flavor by adding extra fresh strawberries on top before serving!
Creative twists
This recipe is easily adaptable if you’re feeling adventurous. Swap the strawberry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry or cherry for a different flavor profile. You could also experiment with flavored cake mixes or add in some chocolate chips for a decadent version. For a lighter alternative, consider using a sugar-free cake mix and fruit filling.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this cake?
The total time from prep to fully baked and cooled is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with the baking itself taking 45-50 minutes.
Can I use a different type of pie filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit pie fillings like peach, blueberry, or cherry. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Look for a golden-brown top with bubbling edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in dessert form. After all, who can resist the combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries? Enjoy making it, and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite!
