If you love easy desserts that taste amazing, you’ll adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake! This simple recipe combines rich cream cheese with fresh strawberries and a delicious cake batter. You don’t need any fancy skills or special equipment. Just dump, bake, and enjoy! Whether you’re new to baking or a pro, this cake will impress everyone. Let’s get started on this sweet journey together!
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
For this tasty dessert, you need fresh ingredients. Here’s a quick list:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Pantry Staples Needed
You will also need some pantry staples. These are easy to find:
– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings and Garnishes
To make your cake even better, consider these toppings:
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Each ingredient plays a big role in the flavor and texture of the cake. Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy touch. Cream cheese gives a rich and creamy layer. The sugar and vanilla enhance the sweetness. The flour, milk, and butter create a soft, fluffy cake. Baking powder helps it rise.
You can find the full recipe for this dish [Full Recipe]. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Baking Dish
First, you need to preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This step stops the cake from sticking.
Preparing the Strawberries
Now, let’s prepare the strawberries. Take 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hull, and slice them. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Toss them gently to coat. Set them aside for about 10 minutes. This lets the strawberries release their sweet juice.
Crafting the Cream Cheese Layer
Next, we’ll make the cream cheese layer. In another bowl, beat 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer or a whisk until it’s smooth. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
Mixing the Cake Batter
For the cake batter, take a large mixing bowl. Whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of melted butter. Then, add 1 cup of whole milk while stirring. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, so your cake stays light and fluffy.
Layering the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part: layering! Pour the cake batter into the greased baking dish. Smooth it out with a spatula. Next, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. After that, layer the sugared strawberries on top. Don’t stir or mix; let the layers sit on each other.
Baking the Cake
Finally, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The cake is ready when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture
To make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fluffy, follow these tips. Mix the batter just until combined. If you overmix, the cake can become tough. Use room temperature butter and cream cheese. This helps them blend smoothly, creating a light texture. Bake until the top is golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
Alternative Methods for Layering
Layering is key to a great dump cake. You can spread your cake batter in the dish first. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture and strawberries on top. Another method is to mix the strawberries into the cream cheese layer. This gives you a marbled effect. Both methods taste great, so choose what you prefer.
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap ingredients if needed. Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter option. You can also use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version. For a gluten-free cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. These swaps keep the cake tasty while meeting your dietary needs.
For the complete preparation details, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Additional Fruit Options for Toppings
You can switch up the fruit to fit your taste. Blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches work well. Just use the same amount as strawberries. They add a fresh burst of flavor. Each fruit gives a unique twist to the cake. Mix and match to find your favorite!
Different Flavored Cream Cheese Alternatives
Cream cheese is key in this recipe. But you can play with flavors! Try adding lemon zest for a bright note. Or mix in some chocolate for a rich taste. You can even use strawberry-flavored cream cheese. Each option changes the cake’s vibe. Feel free to get creative here!
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Adaptations
If you need gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work great in cakes. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese. Coconut milk can replace whole milk. These changes keep the taste and texture yummy. You don’t have to miss out on this dessert!
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Proper Storage of Leftovers
After enjoying your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. This way, you can enjoy it later!
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the cake, first let it cool completely. Then, slice it into portions for easy serving. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This will help keep the cake fresh. It can stay frozen for up to three months. Just label the container with the date.
Reheating Guidelines
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, remove it from the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you want to serve it warm, you can reheat it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream for the best flavor!
FAQs
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert. You mix ingredients and “dump” them into a pan. It usually has layers of fruit and cake mix. This cake is easy to make and requires no special skills. Just like the name suggests, you pour everything in without much fuss. This makes it perfect for busy days when you want something sweet.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain any extra juice. This helps keep the cake from getting too soggy. The flavor will still be great, and your dump cake will taste delicious. Frozen fruit is also a handy option when fresh strawberries are not available.
How to make Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake ahead of time?
To make this cake ahead, follow the steps but do not bake it. Prepare the layers and place them in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. You can bake it later when you are ready. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a nice touch. If you like a crunch, sprinkle some crushed nuts on top. All these options will enhance the dessert’s flavor and make it even more enjoyable.
You now know how to make a delicious strawberry cheesecake dump cake, starting with fresh ingredients and pantry staples. I shared step-by-step instructions for a perfect bake. Remember to try my tips for texture and alternative methods to customize your cake. Don’t forget the variations and storage tips for leftovers! Enjoy this sweet treat any time. Making this cake can be fun and easy, and I hope you feel ready to try it yourself!
![For this tasty dessert, you need fresh ingredients. Here’s a quick list: - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature You will also need some pantry staples. These are easy to find: - 1 cup granulated sugar, divided - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup whole milk - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt To make your cake even better, consider these toppings: - Whipped cream, for serving (optional) - Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a big role in the flavor and texture of the cake. Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy touch. Cream cheese gives a rich and creamy layer. The sugar and vanilla enhance the sweetness. The flour, milk, and butter create a soft, fluffy cake. Baking powder helps it rise. You can find the full recipe for this dish [Full Recipe]. Enjoy making this delightful treat! First, you need to preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This step stops the cake from sticking. Now, let’s prepare the strawberries. Take 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hull, and slice them. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Toss them gently to coat. Set them aside for about 10 minutes. This lets the strawberries release their sweet juice. Next, we’ll make the cream cheese layer. In another bowl, beat 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer or a whisk until it’s smooth. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy. For the cake batter, take a large mixing bowl. Whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of melted butter. Then, add 1 cup of whole milk while stirring. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, so your cake stays light and fluffy. Now comes the fun part: layering! Pour the cake batter into the greased baking dish. Smooth it out with a spatula. Next, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. After that, layer the sugared strawberries on top. Don’t stir or mix; let the layers sit on each other. Finally, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The cake is ready when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature! To make your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake fluffy, follow these tips. Mix the batter just until combined. If you overmix, the cake can become tough. Use room temperature butter and cream cheese. This helps them blend smoothly, creating a light texture. Bake until the top is golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted. Layering is key to a great dump cake. You can spread your cake batter in the dish first. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture and strawberries on top. Another method is to mix the strawberries into the cream cheese layer. This gives you a marbled effect. Both methods taste great, so choose what you prefer. You can swap ingredients if needed. Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter option. You can also use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version. For a gluten-free cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. These swaps keep the cake tasty while meeting your dietary needs. For the complete preparation details, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can switch up the fruit to fit your taste. Blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches work well. Just use the same amount as strawberries. They add a fresh burst of flavor. Each fruit gives a unique twist to the cake. Mix and match to find your favorite! Cream cheese is key in this recipe. But you can play with flavors! Try adding lemon zest for a bright note. Or mix in some chocolate for a rich taste. You can even use strawberry-flavored cream cheese. Each option changes the cake's vibe. Feel free to get creative here! If you need gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work great in cakes. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese. Coconut milk can replace whole milk. These changes keep the taste and texture yummy. You don’t have to miss out on this dessert! For the full recipe, check out the details above. After enjoying your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. This way, you can enjoy it later! To freeze the cake, first let it cool completely. Then, slice it into portions for easy serving. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This will help keep the cake fresh. It can stay frozen for up to three months. Just label the container with the date. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cake, remove it from the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you want to serve it warm, you can reheat it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream for the best flavor! A dump cake is a simple dessert. You mix ingredients and "dump" them into a pan. It usually has layers of fruit and cake mix. This cake is easy to make and requires no special skills. Just like the name suggests, you pour everything in without much fuss. This makes it perfect for busy days when you want something sweet. Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain any extra juice. This helps keep the cake from getting too soggy. The flavor will still be great, and your dump cake will taste delicious. Frozen fruit is also a handy option when fresh strawberries are not available. To make this cake ahead, follow the steps but do not bake it. Prepare the layers and place them in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. You can bake it later when you are ready. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a nice touch. If you like a crunch, sprinkle some crushed nuts on top. All these options will enhance the dessert's flavor and make it even more enjoyable. You now know how to make a delicious strawberry cheesecake dump cake, starting with fresh ingredients and pantry staples. I shared step-by-step instructions for a perfect bake. Remember to try my tips for texture and alternative methods to customize your cake. Don't forget the variations and storage tips for leftovers! Enjoy this sweet treat any time. Making this cake can be fun and easy, and I hope you feel ready to try it yourself!](https://recipetorch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3a3ee2c5-00cd-4203-90eb-e01f9009d6ff-250x250.webp)