Ingredients:

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, fresh strawberries

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Layer Strawberry Filling: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Add Cream Cheese: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry pie filling.
5. Prepare Cake Mix: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and strawberry cake mix until well combined and crumbly.
6. Assemble: Sprinkle the cake mix mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired.

Total Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

20 Secrets and Tips to Achieve the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
2. High-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and cream cheese for the best flavor.
3. Even Layering: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
4. Smooth Cream Cheese Layer: Ensure the cream cheese mixture is smooth and evenly distributed over the strawberry filling.
5. Crumbly Topping: Mix the cake mix and melted butter until crumbly but not too dry; the texture should be similar to wet sand.
6. Baking Dish Size: Use a 9×13-inch baking dish for even baking and perfect thickness.
7. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking and drying out the cake.
8. Golden Brown Top: The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
9. Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set.
10. Garnish Freshly: Add whipped cream and fresh strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh.
11. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.
12. Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the cake warm, allowing the cream cheese to remain soft and creamy.
13. Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.
14. Extra Filling: Add an extra can of strawberry pie filling for a fruitier cake.
15. Mix in Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake mix for a crunchy topping.
16. Use Fresh Berries: Substitute canned pie filling with fresh strawberries and a bit of sugar for a fresher taste.
17. Microwave Tip: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a freshly baked taste.
18. Layer Creativity: Experiment with other pie fillings like cherry or blueberry for different flavors.
19. Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free cake mix and pie filling for a lower-calorie dessert.
20. Presentation: Serve in individual dessert glasses for a fancy presentation, layering the cake with whipped cream and strawberries.

Tips to Make Your Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe Even More Delightful

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling to enhance the flavor and texture.
2. Homemade Whipped Cream: Instead of store-bought whipped cream, make your own for a richer taste.
3. Cream Cheese Softening: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
4. Add Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture to add a refreshing citrus flavor.
5. Layering Strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, macerate them in a little sugar and lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Almond Extract: Add a few drops of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle, nutty flavor.
7. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts over the top of the cake mix for added texture.
8. Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of white or dark chocolate chips to the strawberry layer for a delightful twist.
9. Pre-Bake Crust: Pre-bake the strawberry cake mix base for 10 minutes before adding the cream cheese and strawberry layers to ensure a firmer crust.
10. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and better texture.
11. Vanilla Beans: Use real vanilla beans or high-quality vanilla extract for a more intense vanilla flavor in the cream cheese layer.
12. Strawberry Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle some strawberry syrup or jam over the top before baking for an extra layer of strawberry flavor.
13. Butter Distribution: Make sure the melted butter is evenly distributed over the cake mix to avoid dry spots.
14. Mix-in Nuts: Mix in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cake mix for added crunch.
15. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Bake until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly, but avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist.
16. Cooling Time: Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
17. Whipped Cream Layer: Add a layer of whipped cream over the cooled cake for a creamy finish.
18. Strawberry Garnish: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
19. Mint Leaves: Add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish to complement the strawberry flavor and add a touch of color.
20. Individual Servings: Consider making individual portions in ramekins or mason jars for a more elegant presentation and easy serving.

Most Popular Questions and Their Answers

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
   • Yes, you can use fresh strawberries mixed with a bit of sugar for a fresher taste.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate it. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
   • Yes, white or vanilla cake mix can be used for a different flavor profile.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze the cake?
   • Yes, freeze the baked cake without the fresh toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
6. What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
   • Neufchâtel cheese can be used as a lower-fat substitute for cream cheese.
7. Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
   • Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
8. Can I add other fruits?
   • Yes, adding other berries like blueberries or raspberries can enhance the flavor.
9. Do I need to cover the cake while baking?
   • No, bake uncovered to achieve a golden brown top.
10. How do I prevent the cake mix from becoming too dry?
    • Ensure the cake mix and butter are well combined and crumbly, not dry.
11. Can I use homemade whipped cream?
    • Yes, homemade whipped cream adds a fresh touch.
12. How many servings does this recipe make?
    • This recipe makes about 8 servings.
13. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    • Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used in a pinch.
14. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
15. Can I add chocolate chips?
    • Yes, sprinkling chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer can add a delightful twist.
16. What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
    • Almond extract can be used for a different flavor.
17. Is this dessert very sweet?
    • Yes, it’s quite sweet, but you can reduce the powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to adjust sweetness.
18. Can I use frozen strawberries?
    • Yes, thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.
19. Can I double the recipe?
    • Yes, use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch dishes and adjust baking time as needed.
20. How do I ensure the cake is cooked through?
    • The top should be golden brown, and the edges bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Enjoy making your perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!