Get ready to unleash your inner dessert hero with a recipe so outrageously simple and unbelievably delicious, it’ll make your taste buds sing! Forget complex layers and fussy techniques; we’re diving headfirst into the creamy, dreamy world of Strawberry Cheesecake Delight. Imagine the classic richness of cheesecake meeting the vibrant burst of strawberries, all nestled on a buttery, golden crust that practically makes itself. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration in a pan, a slice of pure joy that promises to be the star of any gathering (or a secret midnight snack, we won’t tell!). So, tie on your apron, grab your spoon, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Delight

There are countless reasons to adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Delight, but we’ve narrowed it down to four irresistible points that will have you preheating your oven in no time:

Ridiculously Easy: Seriously, if you can stir and spread, you can master this dessert! Thanks to brilliant shortcuts like yellow cake mix for the crust and canned strawberry pie filling, you’ll spend less time fussing and more time anticipating pure bliss. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
A Symphony of Flavors: Each bite of this Strawberry Cheesecake Delight is a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and fruity. The rich cream cheese filling, brightened with lemon zest and vanilla, perfectly complements the juicy, sweet strawberry topping, all grounded by a comforting, buttery crust. It’s a flavor explosion!
Crowd-Pleasing Champion: Hosting a party? Need a potluck showstopper? This recipe is your secret weapon. Its generous serving size and universally loved flavors make it an instant hit with everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning dessert connoisseurs. Prepare for rave reviews and requests for the recipe!
Make-Ahead Magic: One of the best features of this Strawberry Cheesecake Delight is that it requires significant chilling time – which means you can bake it a day or two in advance! This frees up your schedule and allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, making for an even more exquisite dessert when it’s time to serve.

Ingredients with Measurements

Gather these simple ingredients to create your luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Delight:

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Cooking spray
1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Finely grated zest of 2 medium lemons (about 4 teaspoons)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 (21-ounce) can strawberry pie filling
FRESH Fresh strawberries, for garnish (optional)

Detailed Step-by-Step Directions to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Delight

Follow these easy steps to bring your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight to life:

Prep Your Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly coat it with cooking spray. This crucial step ensures your delicious cheesecake delight lifts out easily and makes cleanup a breeze.
Create the Simple Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the contents of the yellow cake mix with the melted unsalted butter. Stir these two ingredients together until they are just moistened and fully combined – don’t overmix! Once blended, firmly press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the incredibly delicious and buttery foundation for your delight.
Whip Up the Creamy Filling: In a separate, clean bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, and kosher salt. Using an electric mixer (or a sturdy whisk), beat these ingredients together until the mixture is perfectly smooth, light, and wonderfully creamy. Take your time to ensure there are no lumps. Carefully and gently spread this dreamy cream cheese layer evenly over your prepared cake mix crust.
Add the Fruity Topping: Now for the vibrant star of the show! Gently spoon the entire can of strawberry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Using the back of the spoon or a small spatula, carefully spread the filling evenly from edge to edge, ensuring every slice gets a generous burst of strawberry goodness.
Bake and Chill to Perfection: Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for the edges to become beautifully golden and bubbly, and the center should be mostly set with just a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. After it has cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. It needs to chill for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow all those incredible flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set. This chilling time is essential for the perfect texture and taste.
Serve with a Smile: Before serving, take the Strawberry Cheesecake Delight out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This slight warming softens the cheesecake just enough for optimal texture and flavor. Slice into generous portions, and if you’re feeling extra fancy (and we encourage you to be!), garnish each piece with fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation and a delightful fresh burst.

Different Ways to Present and Serve Your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight

The beauty of this Strawberry Cheesecake Delight isn’t just in its taste, but also in its versatility. Here are some delightful ways to present and serve this spectacular dessert:

Classic Elegance: The simplest and often most striking way to serve is in neat, generous squares. A single fresh strawberry, sliced or whole, placed artfully on top of each slice adds a pop of color and freshness. A dusting of powdered sugar (through a fine-mesh sieve) can elevate its appearance for special occasions.
Individual Delights: For a more personalized touch, cut the cheesecake into smaller squares or even use a cookie cutter (think hearts or stars!) to create individual portions. Serve them on small dessert plates, perhaps with a dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side.
Dessert Bar Extravaganza: Hosting a gathering? Cut the cheesecake into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a large platter. Offer a variety of toppings on the side: extra fresh berries, mini chocolate chips, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprig of fresh mint, or a bowl of vanilla ice cream. Let your guests customize their Strawberry Cheesecake Delight experience!
Deconstructed Dream: For a modern twist, crumble some of the crust, spoon dollops of the cream cheese filling, and top with strawberry pie filling (or fresh strawberries). Serve in clear glasses or jars for a layered, visually appealing dessert.
Coffee Break Companion: Don’t limit this treat to after dinner! A small slice of Strawberry Cheesecake Delight pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Its balanced sweetness makes it a perfect pick-me-up.
The Ideal Temperature: Remember the serving instruction – letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheesecake to soften slightly, bringing out its creamiest texture and intensifying its delicious flavors.

How to Store Your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight and How Long It Lasts

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight for as long as possible while maintaining its delicious taste and texture.

Refrigeration is Key: Since this dessert contains cream cheese, it is essential to store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Ensure the baking dish is tightly covered with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge and keeps it fresh.
How Long It Lasts: When stored correctly in the refrigerator, your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight will stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 5 days. The flavors often deepen and become even more delightful on the second or third day!
Freezing for Longer Storage: Yes, you can freeze this delightful dessert!
1. To Freeze Whole or in Slices: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, you can either wrap the entire pan tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Or, for easier individual servings, slice the cheesecake first. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours).
2. Wrap Individually: Once firm, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. This double layer protects against freezer burn.
3. Storage Duration: Frozen Strawberry Cheesecake Delight can last for up to 1-2 months.
4. Thawing: To enjoy, transfer the frozen cheesecake (whole or slices) to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. For individual slices, you might be able to thaw them at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.

FAQs about Strawberry Cheesecake Delight

Here are 10 frequently asked questions about making and enjoying your Strawberry Cheesecake Delight:

Q1: Can I use a different fruit filling instead of strawberry?
A1: Absolutely! Cherry, blueberry, or even raspberry pie filling would be delicious alternatives. Just ensure it’s a standard 21-ounce can.
Q2: Do I have to use yellow cake mix for the crust?
A2: While yellow cake mix gives a lovely, classic flavor, you can certainly experiment! A white cake mix or even a vanilla cake mix would work wonderfully.
Q3: Can I make this in a different size pan?
A3: This recipe is designed for a 9×13-inch dish. Using a different size might alter baking time and thickness. If you use a smaller pan, you may need to increase the baking time slightly; a larger pan might mean a thinner cheesecake that cooks faster.
Q4: Is it really necessary to chill for 4 hours?
A4: Yes, the chilling time is crucial! It allows the cream cheese layer to fully set, firming up to that perfect cheesecake texture. It also gives all the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.
Q5: Can I make this Strawberry Cheesecake Delight ahead of time?
A5: Absolutely! This is one of its best features. In fact, making it a day in advance (chilling overnight) often results in an even better flavor and texture.
Q6: What if my cream cheese isn’t softened to room temperature?
A6: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, lump-free filling. If you’re short on time, unwrap the cream cheese, cut it into cubes, and spread them on a plate. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds at a time until just soft (be careful not to melt it).
Q7: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling?
A7: You can, but you’ll need to create a fresh strawberry topping. This would typically involve slicing fresh strawberries and cooking them down with sugar and a thickener (like cornstarch or pectin) until it reaches a pie-filling consistency. The canned filling offers a convenient shortcut!
Q8: How do I know when my Strawberry Cheesecake Delight is done baking?
A8: The edges should appear golden and bubbly, and the center should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Q9: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
A9: You can try, but keep in mind that sugar contributes to both the flavor and the texture of the cheesecake. Reducing it significantly might make the filling less creamy or alter the overall sweetness balance with the pie filling.
Q10: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A10: Yes, it is! You can freeze the entire dessert or individual slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Strawberry Cheesecake Delight

A delightful and easy-to-make strawberry cheesecake with a yellow cake crust, perfect for any occasion. A true family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Chilling Time 4

Total Time 5

Servings 12 servings

Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

9x13 inch Baking Dish
Large Bowl
Wire Rack

Ingredients

Simple Crust

cooking spray for baking dish
1 box yellow cake mix 15.25-ounce
12 tbsp unsalted butter 1 1/2 sticks, melted

Creamy Filling

3 packages cream cheese 8-ounce, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 tsp finely grated lemon zest from 2 medium lemons
1/4 tsp kosher salt

Fruity Topping & Garnish

1 can strawberry pie filling 21-ounce
fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep Your Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray for an easy cleanup.
Create the Simple Crust: In a large bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix and melted butter until just combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a delicious, buttery crust.
Whip Up the Creamy Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and kosher salt until the mixture is smooth and wonderfully creamy. Carefully spread this dreamy cream cheese layer over your crust.
Add the Fruity Topping: Gently spoon and spread the strawberry pie filling evenly across the cream cheese layer.
Bake and Chill to Perfection: Bake for 45 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden and bubbly, and the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle. Let the cake cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let all the flavors meld and set.
Serve with a Smile: Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Slice and, if you're feeling fancy, garnish each piece with fresh strawberries for a bright, healthy touch.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 410
Total Carbs: 40g
Net Carbs: 39g
Fats: 26g
Protein: 6g

This easy-to-make cheesecake features a delightful yellow cake crust and a vibrant strawberry topping. Perfect for any gathering or a sweet treat at home!

The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Delight Recipe