This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the flavors of cheesecake and strawberry shortcake. It’s made with a graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a generous topping of strawberries and whipped cream. Perfect for a quick and impressive dessert!
Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Strawberry Topping:
- 1 (21-ounce) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped Cream (for topping):
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch square baking dish or springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Add Strawberry Topping:
- Spoon the strawberry pie filling over the cheesecake layer.
- Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries over the pie filling.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Make the Whipped Cream (optional):
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Top the chilled cheesecake with whipped cream, if desired.
- Slice and serve.
Tips and Notes:
- Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives: You can use other cookie crumbs, such as vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits, for the crust.
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute other fruits for the strawberries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches.
- Make-Ahead: The cheesecake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Whipped Cream Alternatives: You can use store-bought whipped cream or cool whip for topping.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake!