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### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will form the cheesecake base for your dump cake.
#### **2. Layer the Ingredients:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
First, spread the cheesecake mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. It doesn’t need to be perfect—just make sure it’s spread out as evenly as possible.
Next, pour the strawberry pie filling (or fresh sliced strawberries) over the cheesecake layer. Use a spoon to evenly distribute the fruit across the surface.
#### **3. Add the Cake Mix:**
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the strawberry layer. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly—just sprinkle it as evenly as you can. The cake mix will absorb the moisture and create that signature dump cake texture as it bakes.
#### **4. Add Butter and Nuts (Optional):**
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix layer. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them over the top as well. The butter will help the cake mix become golden and crispy as it bakes, while the nuts add a nice crunch and flavor.
#### **5. Bake the Cake:**
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is bubbly. You may want to check halfway through to ensure the cake isn’t browning too quickly—if it is, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.
#### **6. Let it Cool and Serve:**
Once the dump cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a bit. It can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
### **Tips for Success:**
– **Fresh vs. Canned Strawberries:** While canned strawberry pie filling is the easiest option, fresh strawberries will add a more natural, fresh flavor to the cake. If using fresh strawberries, mix them with a bit of sugar and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release some of their juices before layering them in the cake.
– **Topping Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings, such as blueberry, cherry, or raspberry, to change up the flavor. A different cake mix, like white or strawberry, can also give a unique twist to the recipe.
– **Make-Ahead Option:** This dump cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving for the best texture and flavor.
### **Conclusion:**
**Donna Wood’s Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake** is the epitome of an easy, decadent dessert. With layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and a golden cake topping, this dessert requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, it’s sure to impress your guests. The best part? It’s virtually foolproof, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned dessert lovers alike.
With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time in the oven, you’ll have a dessert that’s not only delicious but also beautifully layered and irresistible. Enjoy this dessert as is, or customize it with your favorite fruit and nuts for a unique twist. Either way, this dump cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
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