Indulge in the delightful calm of summer with a dessert that captures the essence of sunshine and sweetness. This delightful dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries, all baked in one simple pan.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cool whip (or whipped cream)
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
Additional cool whip or whipped cream, for serving
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Strawberry Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and 1/4 cup of sugar. Toss gently and let sit for about 15 minutes.
Make the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the cool whip until fully combined.
Mix the Cake Batter: In another bowl, prepare the vanilla cake mix according to package instructions.
Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, pour half of the cake batter, spread evenly, then dollop the cheesecake mixture over the batter.
Add the Strawberries: Spoon the macerated strawberries over the cheesecake layer.
Top with Remaining Cake Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the strawberries.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before serving.
