Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened (3 bricks)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 box white or vanilla cake mix
• Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)

For the Strawberries and Cream Topping:

• 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
   Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in lemon juice and vanilla.
   Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
   Pour into pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
   Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 3 hours.
2. Bake the Cake Layers:
   Prepare the cake batter according to package directions.
   Bake in two 9-inch round cake pans. Cool completely.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
   In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
   Cook over medium heat until thickened. Let cool completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Layer:
   Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
   Spread a thin layer of whipped cream, then place the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
   Add the second cake layer.
   Frost the top and sides with remaining whipped cream.
   Spoon the strawberry topping over the cake.
6. Chill and Serve:
   Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing for best results.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: About 5 1/2 hours
• Servings: 12
• Calories: Approx. 460 per serving