Introduction
If you’re craving a dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweetness of strawberries, then this Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is your answer! This delightful dish is incredibly easy to make and brings a burst of summer flavors to your table anytime of the year. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a simple weeknight treat, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its luscious taste and stunning presentation.
Overview of the Recipe
Making this strawberry cheesecake dump cake is a breeze! You’ll love how the layers of strawberry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and cake mix mingle together to create a moist, flavorful dessert. Expect a delectable combination of sweet and tangy flavors, topped with a gorgeous dusting of powdered sugar and fresh strawberries. In just about 15 minutes of prep time, you can pop this cake into the oven and let it do its magic!
History and Origin
The concept of a dump cake has its roots in simple home baking traditions. The term “dump cake” typically describes a dessert that involves layering ingredients without much fuss, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. Combining strawberry and cheesecake flavors has become a classic in American kitchens, especially in the late 20th century, as convenience and flavor took center stage in dessert recipes.
Ingredients
To whip up this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
– 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
– Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. It does not need to be perfectly smooth; the mixture will spread while baking.
5. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top of the cream cheese mixture and strawberry filling. Do not mix.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix, ensuring it covers as much as possible.
7. Pour the sour cream over the top in dollops or spread it gently, but again, do not mix.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes.
10. Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberries.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate its presentation with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For drinks, consider serving it alongside sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or even a glass of sweet rosé wine for a charming dessert experience at your next gathering.
Variations of the Recipe
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.
– Fruit Alternatives: Instead of strawberry pie filling, you can use raspberry or blueberry, creating a delightful berry medley.
– Cheesecake Twist: Incorporate a swirl of your favorite fruit preserves into the cream cheese mixture before baking for added flavor.
Health Benefits and Notes
Though this cake is a treat, it does have some nutritional benefits. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, specifically Vitamin C. To make this dish a bit healthier, you can opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, lowering the calorie count while still keeping the creamy texture.
FAQs
– Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it close to serving time for optimum freshness.
– What if I don’t have sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute for sour cream.
– Is it necessary to cool before serving? Though it’s tempting to dive right in, cooling for about 15 minutes helps set the layers for better slicing.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt creation that marries simplicity with deliciousness. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. We encourage you to try this recipe and unleash your creativity with various toppings or ingredient substitutions. Share your feedback and let us know how your version turns out!