Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Transform your dessert game with this delectable Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake recipe. Layered with creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery shortcake crust, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures for any occasion. Ideal for summer gatherings or special celebrations, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the fresh sweetness of strawberries, all sitting atop a crumbly shortcake base. This delightful dessert is perfect for summer outings, BBQs, or any special occasion where you want to wow your guests.
The Perfect Summer Treat
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is not only a delightful combination of flavors but also a celebration of summer's bounty. Fresh strawberries peak in juiciness and flavor during the warmer months, making them the perfect topping for this creamy dessert. The contrast of cool cheesecake with sweet, luscious strawberries creates an enticing experience that’s sure to refresh your guests on hot summer days.
This dessert isn’t just for summer, though. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a fantastic choice for holidays and birthday celebrations year-round. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence that both kids and adults will love.
A Delicious Layered Dessert
The beauty of this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake lies in its layered structure, which offers both visual appeal and a delightful combination of textures. The buttery shortcake crust provides a sturdy yet crumbly base, followed by a velvety cheesecake layer that melts in your mouth. Finally, the sweetened strawberries on top add a juicy burst that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the cheesecake, making every bite an experience worth savoring.
Each layer is easy to prepare, and the recipe allows you to enjoy the process of baking. From making the crust to whipping up the cheesecake filling, you’ll find joy in every step, knowing that the result will be a stunning and impressive dessert that you can present proudly.
Tips for Success
To ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly, be sure to bring your cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. This will make it easier to achieve a smooth and creamy texture without lumps. Additionally, mixing the ingredients gradually allows for better incorporation, resulting in a silky filling worthy of your favorite dessert.
When baking the cheesecake, avoid overbaking! Remove it from the oven when the center is just set but slightly jiggly; this will help you achieve that perfect creamy texture. Furthermore, chilling the cheesecake overnight not only enhances the flavor but also allows for easier slicing when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Shortcake Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Make sure to prepare the toppings just before serving to keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Prepare the Shortcake Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter and egg, combining until a dough forms. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream. Mix until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled shortcake crust.
Bake the Cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a bowl, toss the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 30 minutes to create a syrup.
Serve
Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Top with the strawberry mixture just before serving. Enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake!
Enjoy your delicious dessert and share the love!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is fully chilled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to prepare it in advance for a special occasion, feel free to make it a day or two ahead, giving the flavors more time to meld together.
When serving, consider pairing this delightful dessert with a light beverage, such as lemon-infused iced tea or a refreshing sparkling water. The tartness of the drink can enhance the sweetness of the strawberries while complementing the creamy layers.
Variations to Try
While this recipe highlights strawberries, you can easily customize it by using other fruits. Peaches, blueberries, or mixed berries can create delicious variations that are just as appealing. Feel free to experiment with different fruit combinations to discover your personal favorite.
For a unique flavor twist, consider adding a layer of lemon curd or a hint of almond extract to the cheesecake mixture. These additions can elevate your dessert and make it an exciting surprise for those who think they know your traditional Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made one day in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Transform your dessert game with this delectable Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake recipe. Layered with creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery shortcake crust, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures for any occasion. Ideal for summer gatherings or special celebrations, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Shortcake Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter and egg, combining until a dough forms. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream. Mix until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled shortcake crust.
Bake the cheesecake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
In a bowl, toss the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 30 minutes to create a syrup.
Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Top with the strawberry mixture just before serving. Enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 6g