As the sun peeks out and flowers begin to bloom, it’s the perfect time to celebrate Easter with a sweet twist! I can still remember the joy of diving into a fresh, warm slice of Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake at family gatherings. This delightful dessert combines the fresh flavors of juicy strawberries with a buttery graham cracker topping, creating a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. What’s even better? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for home chefs of any skill level. Not only is it crowd-pleasing, but it’s a no-bake wonder that can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress. Ready to make this stunning dessert that will wow your guests? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: You won’t need advanced baking skills to whip up this stunning dessert!
Fresh and Flavorful: Bursting with juicy strawberries, each bite offers a delightful taste of spring.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a dessert that everyone will love.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance, so you can savor the celebrations stress-free.
Gorgeous Presentation: With its vibrant colors and festive sprinkles, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Experience the joy of baking with this Easter treat that everyone will rave about!
Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Ingredients
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For the Cake Base
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds a burst of fruity flavor; frozen strawberries can be swapped in, but remember to thaw and drain them well.
• Graham Crackers – Creates a crunchy, buttery topping; you can substitute with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the graham cracker topping together; margarine can be used for a dairy-free version. -
For the Cheesecake Layer
• Cream Cheese – The star ingredient that provides creamy richness; ensure it’s softened for easy blending.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds necessary sweetness and moisture; you can use evaporated milk mixed with sugar as an alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor profile and balances the sweetness; fresh lime juice is a good substitute if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract can add a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Granulated Sugar – Offers sweetness to the entire dish; adjust to your taste preference. -
For the Topping
• Easter Sprinkles (Optional) – A festive touch for decoration; any seasonal themed sprinkles can add celebration to your dessert.
This delightful Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake is sure to become a new family favorite at your Easter celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter, so your Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will easily release once baked. This will set you up for success as you layer the delicious ingredients that will follow.
Step 2: Prepare The Strawberries
Wash and slice about 2 cups of fresh strawberries, ensuring they are clean and vibrant. Arrange these sliced strawberries in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You want the strawberries to glisten and become slightly caramelized as they bake, releasing their natural sweetness that will infuse the cake.
Step 3: Make The Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, blend the ingredients on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. This luscious cheesecake filling will create the heart of your Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
Step 4: Layer The Cheesecake Mixture
Pour the cream cheese mixture gently over the arranged strawberries in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it covers all the strawberries completely. This layering adds a lovely creamy dimension to the cake, which will meld beautifully with the strawberries as it bakes.
Step 5: Prepare The Graham Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, crush about 1 ½ cups of graham crackers into fine crumbs. Stir in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. The combination of crunchy graham cracker crumbs and rich butter creates a delightful topping that will contrast beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer in the Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
Step 6: Assemble The Topping
Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture generously over the cheesecake layer, covering it completely. Drizzle an additional 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the top, ensuring a beautiful, golden-brown crust as it bakes. This step will be crucial for achieving that perfect texture that everyone loves in a dump cake.
Step 7: Bake The Cake
Place the assembled cake in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the graham cracker topping is golden brown and the cheesecake filling has set with only a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken. Keep an eye on the color; you want to see a lovely golden hue that signals it’s time to come out.
Step 8: Cool And Chill
Once baked, remove the Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. After cooling, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling enhances the flavors and allows the textures to come together beautifully.
Step 9: Serve And Add Festive Touches
When ready to serve, slice the chilled cake into squares and optionally top with festive sprinkles for an eye-catching presentation. This wonderful Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake will not only impress visually but also offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that your family and friends will rave about!
What to Serve with Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Delightfully sweet and creamy, this cake makes a perfect end to your festive meal!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the cake’s creaminess and adds a light texture.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce introduces a rich contrast to the fruity flavors in the cake.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of mixed berries adds fresh and tart notes, providing a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
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Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent, nostalgic treat that everyone loves.
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Mint Sprigs: Garnish each slice with fresh mint, adding a burst of freshness and vibrant color that ties beautifully with Easter themes.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A light, sparkling lemonade or mocktail refreshes the palate and complements the cake’s sweetness perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: A light and colorful fruit salad not only offers freshness but also enhances the seasonal appeal of your Easter celebration.
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Almond Biscotti: Serve alongside crunchy almond biscotti for a delightful textural change that adds an extra layer of flavor.
Expert Tips for Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
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Soften First: Always make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps in your cheesecake filling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
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Layer Ground Rules: When layering your strawberries, aim for an even distribution. This allows for balanced flavors in each bite of your Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
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Test for Doneness: Instead of using a toothpick, check the color of the graham cracker topping. It should be golden brown with a slight jiggle in the cheesecake layer, indicating it’s perfectly set.
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Chill Time is Key: After baking, allow the cake to cool to room temperature and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling period is crucial for enhancing flavors and setting the texture.
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Add Texture: If you’re looking for a little extra crunch in your cake, consider adding finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the graham cracker topping.
Storage Tips for Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake in individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw the frozen slices in the fridge overnight and enjoy them chilled, or heat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Chilling: Always chill the Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance the texture and flavors.
Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful cake by experimenting with these delicious variations!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker topping for a delightful crunch. The texture will contrast beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.
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Berry Bliss: Swap in fresh blueberries or raspberries to layer in with the strawberries for a burst of mixed berry flavor. This twist elevates the dessert with vibrant colors and taste.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the graham cracker mixture for a chocolaty twist that pairs well with the strawberries. Chocolate and strawberry is a match made in dessert heaven!
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Lemon Zest: Enhance the cheesecake filling with a tablespoon of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus freshness. This complements the strawberries and brightens the overall flavor.
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Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut into the graham cracker topping, bringing a tropical flair to this classic dessert. The coconut adds a lovely chewiness that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut cream, to make this cake suitable for dairy-sensitive friends. It’s deliciously creamy without the dairy!
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Seasonal Sprinkles: Change up the festive sprinkles to match other occasions. Use red, white, and blue sprinkles for a July 4th celebration or pastel colors for spring gatherings.
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Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like peppermint or almond instead of vanilla to create a unique flavor profile that surprises your taste buds. The world of extracts is full of delightful possibilities!
For more indulgent treats, don’t forget to explore our Espresso Cheesecake Decadent, Bowl Peanut Cake, and Vanilla Bean Cheesecake for inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can pre-slice the strawberries and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can prepare the cheesecake filling and keep it refrigerated up to 2 days in advance, mixing it before layering for a smooth consistency. When ready to serve, simply layer the prepared strawberries in the baking dish, pour over the cheesecake filling, sprinkle with the graham cracker topping, and bake according to the original instructions. Chilling the cake overnight enhances its flavor, making it just as delicious, so you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for the cake?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh strawberries, look for those that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots or mold. The berries should be fragrant and have shiny, green caps. Avoid overripe strawberries, as they’ll be mushy and less flavorful. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure they are completely thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers of your Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice any excessive moisture, placing a paper towel inside can help absorb it and keep your dessert delightful.
Can I freeze the Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first cut the cake into individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can also warm it briefly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if you prefer.
What if the cheesecake filling is too lumpy?
No worries! If you find that your cheesecake filling is lumpy, this usually happens due to the cream cheese not being softened enough. To fix this, let it sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. If lumps remain after mixing, use a hand mixer to blend on medium speed for an additional minute. For a smoother texture, consider using an immersion blender before layering it over the strawberries.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make this Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake more accommodating, consider substituting regular cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives available on the market. Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version, and adjust sugar levels to control sweetness, if necessary. Just be sure to check the labels for allergens, particularly if serving to guests with specific dietary needs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You bet! This cake is perfect for making a day in advance. Prepare it according to the recipe instructions, allowing it to cool completely, and then chill it in the refrigerator overnight. This will not only save you time on Easter day but will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your dessert experience.
Irresistible Easter Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Wash and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries and layer them at the bottom of the baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, spreading it evenly.
- Crush 1.5 cups of graham crackers into crumbs and mix with 0.5 cups of melted unsalted butter until it resembles wet sand.
- Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture over the cheesecake layer and drizzle with an additional 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and cheesecake is slightly jiggly.
- Cool the cake at room temperature for 1 hour, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Slice into squares and top with festive sprinkles if desired.
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