Introduction
If you’re craving a delightful dessert that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this strawberry cream cheese coffee cake is the perfect choice. Combining the sweetness of strawberry pie filling with the creaminess of cream cheese and a buttery cake mix topping, this dish is an ideal addition to any gathering, from brunch to potlucks.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 box vanilla or white cake mix
1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, sliced thin
Optional: fresh strawberries or crushed graham crackers for topping
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
Yield: 12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the strawberry filling without spreading.
4. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the layers in the baking dish.
5. Place the thin slices of butter evenly over the top, covering as much of the surface as possible.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
7. Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Optional toppings such as fresh strawberries or crushed graham crackers can be added for an extra touch.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter, making sure to cover all the surfaces to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add the Strawberry Filling
Evenly spread the entire can of strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Step 4: Mix Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry filling. Do not spread it; simply let it sit in dollops over the filling.
Step 6: Sprinkle Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the layers in the baking dish. Make sure to cover it completely for an even bake.
Step 7: Add Slices of Butter
Take the thin slices of unsalted butter and place them evenly on top of the dry cake mix. This will help in creating a nice golden crust while baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This will help set the layers.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
For added flavor and decoration, consider topping the cake with fresh strawberries or crushed graham crackers before serving.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for better texture if desired.
Customization Options
Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings, like peach or blueberry, and adjust the toppings according to personal preference.
Cook techniques
Preheating
Preheating the oven ensures even baking. Always set your oven to the correct temperature before placing your dish inside.
Layering
Layer the strawberry pie filling, cream cheese mixture, and cake mix carefully to create distinct layers. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the final dessert.
Mixing
When mixing ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream, use a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps for an airy texture.
Dotting
Dropping spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture onto the strawberry filling allows it to melt and integrate during baking without overly mixing the layers.
Baking
Bake until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. This indicates that the cake is fully cooked and has developed a nice texture.
Cooling
Allowing the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving helps set the layers and makes it easier to cut and serve.
FAQ
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but you’ll need to add sugar to sweeten them, as pie filling is already sweetened.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and bake them just before serving for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This strawberry cream cheese dump cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberry pie filling with the rich creaminess of cream cheese and sour cream, all topped with a golden cake mix layer. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends. Enjoy this tasty treat and watch it become a favorite among your guests!
Strawberry Lemonade Cake
Combine strawberry pie filling with lemon-flavored cake mix to create a refreshing citrus twist on the classic recipe.
Peach Cobbler Cake
Substitute the strawberry pie filling with peach pie filling for a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with ice cream.
Chocolate Strawberry Delight
Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla and top with chocolate shavings for a decadent combination of flavors.
Berry Medley Cake
Mix blueberries and raspberries with the strawberry pie filling for a mixed berry treat that bursts with flavor.
Coconut Cream Cake
Blend coconut cream into the cream cheese mixture and add shredded coconut on top for a tropical twist on the original recipe.
Graham Cracker Crunch
Use crushed graham crackers on top of the cake mix layer for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cake beautifully.
