Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake 🍓🍰

This easy dessert combines the sweet-tartness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, topped with a buttery, golden cake crust. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat, it’s as simple as “dump and bake” but delivers gourmet-level flavor!

📋 Ingredients

• 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Create the Layers

1. Spread the Filling:
   Evenly spread the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Cheesecake Layer:
   Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling. Gently spread the mixture with a spatula, leaving small pockets for the pie filling to peek through.
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix:
   Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cheesecake and strawberry layers, covering the entire surface.
5. Drizzle the Butter:
   Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible to ensure a crisp, golden topping.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until:

• The top is golden brown, and
• The strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cake cool slightly for 10-15 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh strawberries for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
3. Serve warm as is, or pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

🍓 Tips for Success

• Butter Coverage: Ensure the melted butter covers most of the dry cake mix. Any uncovered spots may remain powdery after baking.
• Cheesecake Layer Variations: For extra richness, swirl the cheesecake layer slightly into the pie filling before adding the cake mix.
• Fruit Options: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with other flavors, such as cherry, blueberry, or peach, for variety.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a warm treat.

✨ Nutritional Info

• Calories: ~380 kcal per serving
• Serving Size: Makes 12 servings

This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a foolproof dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. Its buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet strawberries make it a surefire hit for any occasion! 🍓🎂