Introduction
Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy-to-make dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberry pie filling with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Topped with a buttery, golden cake mix crust and optional pecans for added crunch, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe involves layering strawberry pie filling, a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, dry cake mix, and melted butter in a baking dish. The result is a decadent dessert with a delightful mix of textures and flavors, all achieved with minimal effort. Optional chopped pecans add a nutty crunch to the top layer, making each bite even more enjoyable.
History and Origin
The dump cake, as the name suggests, is a dessert where ingredients are simply “dumped” into the baking dish without much mixing. This method originated in the United States and has become popular due to its simplicity and versatility. The combination of strawberry and cream cheese is a classic pairing, often found in cheesecakes and other desserts, making this dump cake a modern twist on familiar flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling, spreading it gently to cover as much as possible.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer.
- Add Butter and Pecans: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the mix as possible. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if using.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake mix has set.
Serving
Serve the Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This recipe makes approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for a family gathering or small party.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
For a delightful dessert experience, consider pairing the Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy ice cream complements the warm cake perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping that adds a touch of elegance.
- Fresh Berries: Enhance the strawberry flavor by serving with fresh strawberries or a mix of berries.
Variations of the Recipe
- Mixed Berry Dump Cake: Use a mixed berry pie filling instead of just strawberry for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for a chocolate-covered strawberry flavor.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans for a nut-free dessert, or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunch without nuts.
Health Benefits Notes
While this dessert is indulgent, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Calcium and Protein: The cream cheese provides some calcium and protein.
- Vitamin C: Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system.
For a slightly lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and less sugar. Alternatively, a sugar substitute can be used to reduce the overall sugar content.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pie filling? A: Yes, you can substitute the strawberry pie filling with any other fruit pie filling, such as blueberry, cherry, or apple.
Q: Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and refrigerate the dish until you are ready to bake it. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Store the cooled cake in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet delectable dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its layers of strawberry, creamy cheese, and buttery cake mix, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because, this dessert is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results with every bite of this wonderful cake