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#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Layer**: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a whisk for this step.
3. **Layer the Pie Filling**: Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you prefer using fresh strawberries, slice them and mix them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Then, pour this strawberry mixture into the dish.
4. **Top with Cheesecake Mixture**: Next, spoon the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberry layer. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly; just dollop it in places over the strawberries. It will spread as it bakes.
5. **Add the Cake Mix**: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cheesecake layer. Make sure the entire surface is covered. No need to mix the cake mix in; it will absorb the juices and form a crumbly topping as it bakes.
6. **Add the Butter**: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter will melt and help form a golden, crispy top.
7. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The center should be set and no longer jiggly.
8. **Cool and Serve**: Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgent touch, top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
#### Tips for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
– **Fresh vs. Canned Strawberries**: If using fresh strawberries, you can make a quick strawberry compote by cooking them with a bit of sugar to bring out their juices and sweetness. For a shortcut, canned strawberry pie filling is a perfect choice.
– **Add Some Crunch**: If you prefer a crunchier topping, add a handful of chopped nuts (like almonds, pecans, or walnuts) over the cake mix before adding the melted butter.
– **Customize the Flavor**: You can switch up the fruit for different variations of this dump cake. Try blueberry pie filling or fresh peaches for a different flavor profile. The cheesecake layer complements any fruit beautifully.
– **Make it Ahead**: You can prepare the dessert the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
#### Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake:
1. **Effortless**: This dessert requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days when you need a quick and easy dessert.
2. **Versatile**: You can use any type of fruit or even switch up the cake mix for different flavor combinations.
3. **Irresistibly Delicious**: The sweet, fruity strawberry layer pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake filling and buttery, golden cake topping.
4. **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, potluck, or party, this dessert is sure to be a hit!
With its decadent flavors and simple prep, this **Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake** is sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Give it a try the next time you’re craving something sweet and satisfying!
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