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Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Introduction and Origin
The Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts — the creamy richness of cheesecake and the fruity sweetness of strawberry shortcake. “Dump cakes” first became popular in mid-20th-century America for their simplicity: all the ingredients are “dumped” into a baking dish and baked to perfection, no mixing bowl required. This version adds a luscious cheesecake layer, creating a creamy, fruity, and buttery dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Cultural Significance
Dump cakes reflect the American love for quick, comforting desserts that deliver big flavor with minimal effort. They often appear at potlucks, family reunions, and holiday gatherings, symbolizing togetherness and simplicity. Adding the cheesecake element elevates it to something that feels festive and luxurious, making it suitable for celebrations or cozy evenings alike.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional garnish)
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake crust flavor
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds for a nutty crunch
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
- A drizzle of white chocolate or strawberry syrup for presentation
Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese properly for smooth blending.
- Evenly distribute the butter over the cake mix to ensure full coverage and even baking.
- Do not overmix — the “dump” method relies on layering rather than stirring.
- Cool slightly before serving to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spoon or dollop this mixture over the pie filling.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
- Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or your favorite topping.
Description
This dessert is a beautiful layering of textures and flavors — a gooey, fruity base of strawberry filling; a creamy, tangy cheesecake middle; and a buttery, crumbly cake topping. Each spoonful offers a satisfying mix of sweet, tart, and rich flavors that melt together perfectly.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Sugars: 28 g
- Protein: 4 g
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake blends the ease of a classic dump cake with the decadence of cheesecake, making it a winning dessert for any occasion. It’s an effortless showstopper that tastes like you spent hours baking.
Recommendation
Serve this cake slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream for an irresistible treat. It’s perfect for spring picnics, summer potlucks, or winter gatherings when you crave a burst of berry sweetness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To enjoy this indulgence more healthfully, use reduced-fat cream cheese, a sugar-free strawberry filling, and a lighter cake mix. Portion control also helps you savor the dessert without guilt — a small serving delivers all the pleasure of a decadent treat while keeping balance in mind.
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