Hi, I’m Lina. I’m 30 years old and living here in the United States, and if there’s one place that feels like home to me no matter what season I’m in, it’s the kitchen.
I found this recipe scribbled inside an old family cookbook, its pages stained, corners folded, and ink faded from years of love and use. Just holding it brought back quiet afternoons and familiar smells.Try it old recipes always carry a little magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake offers incredible ease and reliability for dessert lovers. Its comforting flavors balance the sweetness of strawberries with a creamy cheesecake essence, making it a hit for family meals or casual gatherings. The straightforward preparation ensures that anyone can recreate this delightful dessert without needing extensive baking skills.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (texture)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (moisture)
- 1 package yellow cake mix (about 425g) (structure)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (moisture)
- 1/2 cup sugar (flavor)
- 1 cup milk (moisture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (flavor)
How to Make Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is an essential first step, as a properly heated oven ensures even cooking throughout the dump cake. While it’s warming up, you can prepare your ingredients, giving you a jumpstart on the process.
Step 2. Next, slice the fresh strawberries and set them aside. This allows you to have the fruit ready to layer without any delay. You want about 2 cups of strawberries, which will provide a juicy, flavorful base for the cake, enhancing both texture and taste.
Step 3. Using a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy cheesecake layer you’re after. Make sure there are no lumps; a well-mixed cream cheese will spread easily, integrating well with the other ingredients in your dump cake.
Step 4. In the same mixing bowl, gradually add in the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until combined and slightly fluffy. The sugar will sweeten the mixture, while the milk adds moisture. This creamy layer will be one of the highlights of your cake.
Step 5. Now, pour the batter from Step 4 evenly over your sliced strawberries in the baking dish. It’s important to distribute it evenly to ensure every bite has a hint of strawberry and creamy sweetness. Spreading it out will help it cook uniformly.
Step 6. Next, sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This step creates a delicious, crumbly topping that contrasts beautifully with the softer layers below. Try to cover the entire surface, as the dry mix will absorb moisture during baking to form a cake-like texture.
Step 7. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix topping. This will help the cake mix to bind together and develop a golden, crispy top. Make sure to cover all areas evenly to prevent any dry spots in the final product.
Step 8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Watch for a golden brown color on top and bubbles around the edges, indicating that your dump cake is nearing completion. It’s ready when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
Step 9. Once done baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This cooling time lets the flavors meld together and makes it easier to cut and serve. You’ll notice a delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen—an excellent sign that you’ve created something special.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is versatile for any meal or snack. Enjoy it warm as a comforting dessert after dinner, or serve it chilled for a refreshing treat during a summer gathering. It’s also an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch alongside a cup of coffee. Leftovers can be stored and enjoyed for days, making it a practical choice for busy families.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries for optimal flavor; frozen ones may make the cake too watery.
- Don’t skip the butter drizzling on the cake mix; it enhances the top’s texture significantly.
- Monitor the cake closely as it bakes to achieve the perfect golden brown color without overcooking.
- Allow the cake to rest briefly after baking to set the layers before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using cold cream cheese: If cream cheese isn’t softened, it can create lumps in the mixture, leading to an uneven texture. To prevent this, ensure to leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to use.
2. Not rinsing the strawberries: Failing to wash your strawberries can result in gritty textures or unappealing flavors. Always rinse them well under cold water to enhance their freshness and flavor before slicing.
3. Overmixing the batter: Mixing too aggressively can introduce air into the cream cheese layer, making it puffy instead of creamy. Mix just until combined for a smoother product.
4. Measuring with a heavy hand: Adding too much cake mix or butter can lead to an overly dry or oily cake. Always measure with care for a balanced outcome.
5. Not checking doneness: Overbaking can lead to a dry dump cake. Use a skewer or toothpick inserted in the center to test; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
6. Inconsistent layer thickness: Allowing for uneven distribution of strawberries, cream cheese, and batter might not create the best result. Aim to layer them evenly for a consistent flavor and texture in each slice.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider adding different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. You can also incorporate lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor. For a crunchier topping, sprinkle some chopped nuts or coconut flakes over the cake mix. If you’d like to change up the cream cheese layer, try adding a spoonful of lemon yogurt for a unique taste.
Storage & Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. For room temperature storage, cover the cake tightly with foil or plastic wrap and enjoy within a day or two. For longer shelf life, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. If freezing, wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, place portions in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed, preserving its moist texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information was not provided for this recipe.
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dump cake a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator tightly covered. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
How long does it last in the fridge?
When stored properly, this dessert can last about 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it is sealed well to avoid drying out and to maintain its flavor.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the dump cake. Make sure it’s wrapped securely to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat to serve.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you need to substitute the cream cheese, consider using a block of mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Several factors could cause unexpected outcomes, including inaccurate measurements or incorrect oven temperatures. Always use standard measuring tools and check that your oven is properly calibrated for accurate results.
Final Thoughts
Making Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a rewarding experience that brings cozy flavors to your kitchen without the fuss of traditional baking. Each slice offers comfort and sweetness, making it a lovely choice for any dessert table. Enjoy the simplicity of preparing this cake and the joy it brings in every bite, knowing it’s a refreshing treat done right.
Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Ingredients
For the cheesecake layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing.
- 1/2 cup sugar Adds sweetness to the cheesecake layer.
- 1 cup milk Adds moisture to the cheesecake layer.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Provides additional flavor.
For the dump cake
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced Blueberries or raspberries can be substituted.
- 1 package yellow cake mix (about 425g) This forms the cake's structure.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Drizzle over cake mix for texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Slice the fresh strawberries and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add in the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix until combined.
Assembly
- Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the sliced strawberries in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix topping.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.