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Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Benchi

Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake

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Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Fresh Strawberries The star of our dessert, providing a burst of fresh, sweet, and slightly tart flavor. Choose ripe, red strawberries for the best taste and color.
  • 1 box, about 9 sheets Graham Crackers Crushed into crumbs, forming a delicious, buttery base and topping for the dump cake. Adds a wonderful textural contrast.
  • 1 cup, 2 sticks Unsalted Butter Melted and poured over the graham cracker topping, creating a crispy, golden crust and adding rich flavor.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Provides the signature cheesecake tang and creamy texture. Ensure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
  • 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk Adds sweetness and a luscious, creamy consistency to the cheesecake layer, binding it together beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake filling, adding a subtle citrusy note.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness to both the cheesecake and strawberry components.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adds extra sweetness to the strawberries, helping to macerate them and draw out their juices.
  • Easter Sprinkles (Optional) For a festive touch, add colorful Easter-themed sprinkles to the top of the cake before or after baking.

Equipment

  • baking dish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the dump cake from sticking and make it easier to serve.
  2. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries. Place the sliced strawberries in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the strawberries. This will help them release their juices and create a delicious strawberry base.
  3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese for a perfectly smooth filling.
  4. Pour Cheesecake Filling Over Strawberries: Gently pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the layer of strawberries in the baking dish. Try to distribute it evenly to cover all the strawberries.
  5. Prepare Graham Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor, blender, or place them in a zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
  6. Sprinkle Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the cheesecake layer. Ensure the entire cheesecake layer is covered with the crumbs for a nice crust.
  7. Drizzle with Melted Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the graham cracker crumbs. This is crucial for creating that golden, crispy topping.
  8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set. A slight jiggle in the center is okay, as it will continue to set as it cools.
  9. Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let the dump cake cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Cooling is essential for the cheesecake to set properly and for the flavors to meld together.
  10. Chill Before Serving (Optional but Recommended): For best results, chill the dump cake in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight. This will firm it up and make it easier to slice and serve.
  11. Add Festive Sprinkles (Optional): If desired, sprinkle Easter-themed sprinkles over the cooled dump cake just before serving for an extra festive touch.
  12. Serve and Enjoy!: Cut into squares and serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.