If you have a passion for decadent desserts that beautifully blend the fresh taste of summer with creamy indulgence, then this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture a golden Oreo crust that provides the perfect buttery crunch, giving way to a luscious strawberry-studded cheesecake layer, crowned with a soft vanilla cake and fluffy whipped cream, finished off with a vibrant crumb coating that captures every essence of strawberry sweetness. This layered masterpiece is exactly what you need when you want to wow your family or guests with a dessert that tastes as delightful as it looks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but each plays a crucial role in making the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe irresistible. From the crispness of the golden Oreo crust to the fresh tang of strawberries and the richness of cream cheese, every component works harmoniously for texture, taste, and visual appeal.
- 2 cups crushed golden Oreos: Provides a sweet, buttery base that’s crunchy and perfectly textured for the crust.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the cookie crumbs together to form a sturdy foundation.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, delivering smoothness and tang.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- 3 large eggs: Gives structure and richness to the cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that balances sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to stabilize the cheesecake for a smooth texture.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (chopped): Bursts of natural, juicy sweetness gently folded into the filling.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Tossed with strawberries to enhance their natural flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: For a cloud-like whipped topping that’s rich and luscious.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream with delicate flavor.
- 1 box strawberry gelatin mix: Adds a vivid strawberry flavor and helps with the crumb topping’s bright, fruity punch.
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (prepared and baked as directed): Complements the cheesecake with a fluffy, soft layer.
- 1/2 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries: Provides a crunchy, intense strawberry flavor to the crumb topping.
- 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos (for crumb topping): Adds texture and ties together the flavors in the topping layer.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the crushed golden Oreos with melted butter in a mixing bowl, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This creates that deliciously crisp and buttery crust foundation. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool as you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth to avoid lumps. Gradually incorporate the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Add the sour cream and flour, mixing just enough to combine. Carefully fold in the chopped strawberries that you’ve already tossed with a tablespoon of sugar—this step ensures your cheesecake is dotted with juicy, tender berries. Pour this luscious filling over your cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center just barely jiggles. Once done, switch off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for about an hour—that slow cooling keeps the texture silky and prevents cracks. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight so it becomes firm and sliceable.
Step 4: Bake the Vanilla Cake Layer
While the cheesecake chills, prepare the vanilla cake according to the package instructions using a 9-inch round pan. Bake it until golden, then let it cool completely. This fluffy cake will add a tender, light contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
Step 5: Whip the Cream Topping
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will create a fluffy, cloud-like topping for your cake that’s both visually stunning and heavenly in taste.
Step 6: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe
Place your chilled cheesecake layer on a serving plate, then carefully top it with the cooled vanilla cake layer. Use a generous amount of whipped cream to coat the top and sides of the layered cake. For a fun and flavorful crumb topping, mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, strawberry gelatin powder, and additional crushed golden Oreos. Gently press this crumb mixture onto the whipped cream coating. Pop the whole cake back in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Every bite of this cake is already packed with strawberry goodness, but a few fresh strawberry slices on top will make it look spectacular and add an extra burst of bright flavor. You might also sprinkle some edible flower petals or a dusting of powdered sugar for that elegant touch.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. If you want a beverage pairing, a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a fruity lemonade will complement the strawberry notes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into tall, generous wedges and serve them on colorful dessert plates. You can also create mini versions by assembling the layers in small glasses or ramekins for an elegant individual presentation perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays fresh for up to 4 days, with the whipped cream maintaining its light texture if kept chilled well.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake, but due to the whipped cream topping, it’s best to freeze the cheesecake and cake layers separately before assembly. Wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and assemble freshly.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary. Serving it straight from the fridge keeps the texture and flavors spot on. If the layers are too firm from chilling, leaving a slice at room temperature for 15 minutes softens it up perfectly.
FAQs
Can I substitute golden Oreos with another crust?
Absolutely! Golden Oreos give a nice sweet crunch, but graham cracker crust works wonderfully as a classic alternative and brings a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
Is fresh strawberry better than frozen?
Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and natural flavor, but if you only have frozen berries, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can affect the cheesecake texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free vanilla cake mix and gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust and topping. Just double-check that all your ingredients are gluten-free certified.
How long does this cheesecake stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly in a covered container, your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This warm, clean blade helps maintain smooth, beautiful slices without smearing the layers.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of all worlds—creamy, fruity, crunchy, and light in just the right balance. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this classic combination turns into something spectacular right in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and dive into this delicious celebration of strawberries and cheesecake magic!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a luscious layered dessert combining a rich golden Oreo crust, creamy strawberry-studded cheesecake, a moist vanilla cake layer, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Finished with a crumbly mix of freeze-dried strawberries, strawberry gelatin, and crushed golden Oreos, this cake is perfect for birthdays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed golden Oreos
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Vanilla Cake Layer
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (prepared and baked as directed)
Whipped Topping
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crumb Topping
- 1 box strawberry gelatin mix
- 1/2 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos with the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and flour until just combined. Toss the chopped fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon sugar, then gently fold them into the batter. Pour the filling evenly over the cooled crust.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. After this resting period, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Bake the vanilla cake layer: Meanwhile, prepare the vanilla cake according to the package instructions. Bake in a 9-inch round pan and let it cool fully before assembly.
- Prepare the whipped topping: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy and stable whipped cream.
- Assemble the cake: Place the chilled cheesecake layer on a serving plate. Carefully top it with the cooled vanilla cake layer. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Add crumb coating: Combine the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, strawberry gelatin powder, and crushed golden Oreos in a bowl. Press this crumb mixture gently onto the whipped cream coating, covering the entire cake surface for added texture and flavor.
- Final chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake until ready to serve, allowing all layers to meld together beautifully.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the cheesecake and cake layers a day in advance, then assemble the next day for optimal texture and flavor.
- You can substitute golden Oreos with graham crackers for the crust if preferred.
- If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen strawberries that are thawed and well-drained can be used instead.
