Strawberry Cream Dump Cake -

Indulging in desserts can be a delightful escape, especially when those desserts come together effortlessly, like the Strawberry Cream Dump Cake. This easy-to-make recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberry pie filling and a golden cake topping, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting last-minute guests or just craving something sweet, this dish promises creamy goodness with minimal preparation time.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The Strawberry Cream Dump Cake is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also caters to diverse tastes. It’s rich enough to satisfy dessert enthusiasts while still being simple enough for beginners. The layers meld beautifully during baking, creating a luscious, creamy texture with every bite. Plus, with the addition of optional graham cracker crumbs, this cake can evoke fond memories of strawberry cheesecake. It guarantees deliciousness in under an hour, making it an ideal last-minute dessert option.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up a delightful Strawberry Cream Dump Cake:

1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
½ cup melted butter
½ cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 2: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. The pie filling will provide the sweet, fruity base for this delightful cake.

Step 3: Evenly scatter the cubed cream cheese over the strawberry pie filling. This will add a creamy texture and a wonderful flavor contrast to the sweetness of the strawberry layer.

Step 4: If you’re using vanilla extract, this is the time to stir it into the strawberry pie filling. This step is optional, but vanilla can enhance the overall flavor of the cake.

Step 5: Next, sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the strawberry and cream cheese layers, avoiding any clumps to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, taking care to cover as much of the surface as possible for a rich, buttery taste.

Step 7: If you’re incorporating graham cracker crumbs, sprinkle them on top of the melted butter. This adds a delightful crunch, reminiscent of a cheesecake crust.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Step 9: To serve, scoop the warm cake onto plates and consider pairing it with a dollop of ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cream Dump Cake

For a richer flavor, consider using fresh strawberries in addition to the pie filling. Simply slice and layer them before adding the cream cheese.
Experiment with different flavored cake mixes such as lemon or strawberry for a unique twist.
To make it even quicker, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Don’t be afraid to add your favorite toppings when serving, such as chocolate drizzle, crushed nuts, or extra fruit.
Serve warm for the best experience, as the flavors meld together beautifully when heated.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit filling?

Yes! You can replace the strawberry pie filling with any fruit pie filling you like, such as cherry, blueberry, or apple, depending on your preferences.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix and check that your pie filling and other ingredients do not contain gluten.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave before serving for the best taste.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the layers and refrigerate the assembled cake without baking. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

Is it necessary to add graham crackers?

The graham cracker crumbs are optional but add a nice texture and flavor reminiscent of cheesecake crust. You can skip them if you prefer a simpler cake.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Cream Dump Cake is proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a remarkable outcome, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake brings joy and satisfaction in every bite, making it a perfect choice for entertaining family and friends at a moment’s notice. Give it a try and experience the creamy, fruity goodness for yourself!