Easter is a time for family, friends, and, of course, food that brings everyone together. Imagine a dessert that combines the sweet, juicy goodness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake. You can practically hear the angels sing! With this Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, your taste buds are in for a treat as layers of flavor create a magical experience that will leave everyone smiling.
This delightful dessert is not only simple to make but also perfect for those who may not have much baking experience. Picture yourself whipping up this cake with ease and joy, impressing your guests without breaking a sweat. Perfect for Easter celebrations or any spring gathering, this cake promises to be the star of the show!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dessert is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy hosts or novice bakers.
- The combination of strawberries and cheesecake creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- With its vibrant colors and luscious texture, it adds visual appeal to any table setting.
- Versatile enough to switch up flavors based on seasonal fruits or preferences, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Strawberries: Fresh or frozen strawberries work beautifully; just ensure they’re ripe and sweet for maximum flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing; it adds that rich cheesecake flavor we all adore.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener helps balance the tartness of the strawberries and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the taste and complements the fruity notes perfectly.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Use your favorite brand; this mix forms a fluffy base that soaks up all those delicious juices.
- Butter: Melted butter gives richness to the cake mix layer, ensuring every bite is indulgent.
- Milk: Whole milk works best to keep everything moist; feel free to substitute with plant-based options if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Strawberries
Start by washing and slicing your strawberries. If you’re using frozen ones, let them thaw at room temperature while you get everything else ready.
Step 2: Mix Your Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be your heavenly cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients
In a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread half of your strawberries on the bottom. Then dollop spoonfuls of your cream cheese mixture over them like little clouds of happiness.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. No need to stir; just let it sit there like it’s enjoying a sunny day!
Step 5: Pour Butter and Milk
Drizzle melted butter over the top of the cake mix layer followed by pouring whole milk evenly across it all. This step sets up a beautiful blend as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Away!
Pop your creation into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Consider offering whipped topping or additional fresh strawberries on top—because why not? Transfer to plates and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake combines the tangy sweetness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, making it a showstopper for any spring gathering.
- With minimal effort, you can impress your guests while enjoying a slice of heavenly goodness.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine your ingredients in a baking dish, layering them thoughtfully. Bake until golden and bubbly, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Serve warm for an irresistible dessert experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist. Customize with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or fresh mint.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat that tastes freshly baked.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use fresh strawberries as frozen ones may make the cake soggy.
- Always allow the cake to cool before serving to enhance flavors.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese layer; it’s what makes this dessert truly decadent!
Sometimes, I whip up this Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake just to see my kids’ eyes light up when they take their first bite; their smiles are priceless!
FAQs:
What is an Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
An Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of strawberries, cheesecake filling, and cake mix in a simple, one-pan recipe. This cake is perfect for spring celebrations and Easter gatherings. The layers meld beautifully during baking, creating a moist and flavorful treat that everyone will love. Serve it warm or chilled with whipped topping for added indulgence.
How do I make the cheesecake filling for the dump cake?
To create the cheesecake filling for your Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, blend cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor. Once mixed, spread this creamy filling over the strawberry layer before adding the cake mix on top. This combination creates a rich contrast to the fruity base.
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work perfectly in this Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy texture. Using frozen berries allows you to enjoy this delicious dessert year-round while adding convenience to your baking process.
How do I store leftovers of the dump cake?
To store leftover Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. You can also freeze individual portions in airtight containers for longer storage. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving again.
Conclusion for Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
In summary, the Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is an easy yet impressive dessert that brings joy to any spring celebration. By layering strawberries, a creamy cheesecake mixture, and cake mix, you create a delectable treat without much fuss. Remember that frozen strawberries are a great option if fresh ones aren’t available. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this dessert is sure to delight your guests and make your Easter gathering memorable!
Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that beautifully captures the essence of spring. This one-pan treat features luscious layers of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and a fluffy cake mix topping. Perfect for any Easter celebration or spring gathering, this cake is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors. Serve it warm or chilled for a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and slice fresh strawberries; if using frozen, thaw them.
- In a bowl, blend softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the strawberries on the bottom. Spoon cream cheese mixture over strawberries.
- Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer without stirring.
- Drizzle melted butter over cake mix, then pour milk evenly on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and bubbly at the edges. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in lemon zest or almond extract. Customize toppings with whipped cream or fresh mint. Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available; be sure to drain excess liquid.
