Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake: A Delightful Treat
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that combines the fruity sweetness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This dessert is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginners or those who need a quick but impressive treat for gatherings. The “dump cake” style requires minimal effort, as ingredients are layered rather than mixed, producing a deliciously textured cake with gooey fruit and a crunchy topping.
History of Dump Cakes
The concept of dump cakes originated in the mid-20th century in the United States as a quick and convenient dessert for busy households. These cakes gained popularity for their simplicity: just “dump” the ingredients into a pan, bake, and enjoy. While traditional dump cakes often use canned fruit and cake mix, the addition of cheesecake elements adds a modern twist to this classic recipe.
Benefits of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Ease of Preparation: Ideal for all skill levels, especially beginners.
- Versatility: where you can substitute fruits or adjust sweetness.
- Nutritional Value: Provides calcium from the cream cheese and vitamins from strawberries.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both children and adults at gatherings.
- Customizable: Pairs well with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the Base:
2 cups of fresh or frozen strawberries (sliced)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake Layer:
1 box of vanilla or white cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup milk
Optional Toppings:
Whipped cream
Fresh strawberries
Drizzle of strawberry syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. Set aside for 5–10 minutes to let the strawberries release their juices.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Dump Cake
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the strawberry mixture evenly at the bottom.
- Dollop the cheesecake mixture over the strawberries and gently spread it out.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top.
- Drizzle the melted butter and milk over the cake mix, ensuring as much of the dry mix is moistened as possible.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Formation & Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnish with fresh strawberries for added flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 320
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Lovers of Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
This dessert is adored by dessert enthusiasts, strawberry lovers, and cheesecake fans alike. It’s the go-to treat for birthday parties, potlucks, and family dinners, loved for its indulgent flavors and simplicity.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the epitome of comfort food—a dessert that is both nostalgic and daily rewarding. Its rich layers of fruit, cheesecake, and buttery cake make it irresistible. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned chef, this recipe ensures you’ll have a stunning dessert that will leave your guests asking for more.