Easy 5-Ingredient Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

If you’re in the mood for a delicious dessert that requires minimal effort, look no further! This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful combination of sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake flavors, all wrapped up in a straightforward recipe that anyone can master. With only five ingredients, this easy strawberry dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a treat for yourself on a cozy evening.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

Ingredients:
– 1 can (about 21 oz) strawberry pie filling
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Kitchen Tools:
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Mixing bowl
– Electric mixer (optional)
– Rubber spatula
– Oven mitts

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
3. Spread the Strawberry Filling: Evenly distribute the strawberry pie filling at the bottom of the baking dish, ensuring it’s spread out smooth.
4. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy. Add in the fresh strawberries and mix until well combined.
5. Layer the Cheesecake Mixture: Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Use a rubber spatula to gently spread it, but don’t worry about making it perfect; it’s a dump cake!
6. Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry vanilla cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer.
7. Drizzle the Butter: Pour the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8. Bake Your Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. It’s delightful warm, and you can top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake isn’t just delicious; it also provides nutritional benefits with its star ingredient—fresh strawberries! Strawberries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dessert not just a treat but a healthier indulgence when you use fresh fruit.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Alternate Berries: Feel free to substitute strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or cherries, depending on what you have available.
– Add a Crunch: For a bit of added texture, consider sprinkling crushed nuts or granola on top before baking.
– Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free butter substitute for a delicious vegan-friendly version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is soft; this will help blend it easily and create a smooth texture.
– Skipping the Grease: Don’t forget to grease your baking dish! It’s essential for easy removal and to prevent sticking.
– Overmixing the Cake Mix: It’s best to sprinkle the cake mix evenly rather than mixing it into the batter to maintain a delicious crumb topping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!

Conclusion

In summary, this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a quick, easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress anyone at your next gathering. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a strawberry treat that satisfies both sweet cravings and offers a comforting cake experience. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but make sure to drain any excess liquid before using.

2. How can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the layers ahead of time, but it’s best to bake just before serving for the freshest taste.

4. Can I freeze the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.