Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake

Sure! Here’s a detailed recipe for a Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake. This is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the best parts of cake, cheesecake, and fresh strawberries in a multi-layered masterpiece. Let’s get started:

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Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 box of white cake mix (or your favorite homemade cake recipe)

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, helps set cheesecake layer)

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk, as needed to adjust consistency)

For the Garnish:

• Extra fresh strawberries for decoration

• Optional: Whipped cream

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Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a large bowl, mix the cake batter according to the instructions on the box. This typically involves combining the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk until smooth.

3. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

5. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) if you’re making the cheesecake separately (you can also make this in a water bath for a smoother texture, but it’s optional).

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.

4. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (if using).

5. Optionally, fold in flour to help stabilize the cheesecake layer.

6. Pour the cheesecake batter into a prepared 9-inch springform pan or a pie dish (or whichever pan you’d prefer).

7. Bake for 45-55 minutes until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

8. Cool the cheesecake completely at room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

1. Slice the fresh strawberries into thin slices.

2. In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (optional). Toss to combine and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juice. This creates a syrup that will soak into the cake and add flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated.

3. Add vanilla extract and mix again.

4. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream (or milk) a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cake layers if they’ve risen unevenly. You can trim the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife to make them flat.

2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Gently spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.

3. Top with a layer of sliced strawberries, spooning over the syrupy juice as well.

4. Place the cheesecake layer on top of the frosted cake. If the cheesecake is in a springform pan, carefully remove the sides and transfer it.

5. Top with the second cake layer and lightly press down.

6. Frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. You can smooth it out or make decorative swirls, depending on your preference.

7. Garnish the top with extra fresh strawberries and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the entire cake for about 30-60 minutes before slicing, so the layers set together.

2. Slice and serve chilled! Enjoy this luxurious treat!

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Tips:

• You can make the cake and cheesecake layers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the cake.

• Feel free to substitute the white cake mix for a vanilla or strawberry cake mix if you want more flavor depth.

• For extra flavor, you could even add a layer of strawberry jam or a drizzle of strawberry syrup between the layers of cake.