If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of two classics—strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake—look no further than Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. This sweet masterpiece brings together the moist, tender texture of a buttery shortcake, the luxurious richness of baked cheesecake, and the bright, fresh flavor of ripe strawberries.
From birthday parties to family dinners, this dessert will steal the spotlight. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will help you create a stunning and absolutely delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake from scratch.
Why Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Is So Irresistible
This dessert is a triple-layered indulgence. First, there's a buttery shortcake base that provides the perfect foundation. Next comes a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer that melts in your mouth. Finally, the topping of fresh strawberry compote and a golden strawberry crumble brings freshness and crunch.
The combination of textures and flavors makes it hard to resist. It’s fruity, creamy, crumbly, and sweet, all at once. It’s the type of dessert that gets requested over and over again—especially during strawberry season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create each layer of this stunning dessert:
Shortcake Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
Strawberry Compote Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:
- 12 golden Oreo cookies, crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcake Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and vanilla until a sticky dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and firm. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, lemon juice, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until smooth and well blended.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Do not overmix.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled shortcake base and smooth the top. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan filled with 1 inch of hot water (optional but helps prevent cracking).
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour. This step helps prevent sudden cooling, which can lead to cracks.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Compote
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5–7 minutes or until the strawberries release their juices and soften.
Let the compote cool to room temperature before spreading over the cheesecake.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Crumble
In a small bowl, mix crushed golden Oreo cookies, melted butter, and strawberry gelatin powder until crumbly. The gelatin gives it that iconic pink color and fruity flavor.
This crumble topping adds a pop of color and a sweet crunch to each slice.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
Spoon the strawberry compote over the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the strawberry crumble generously over the top.
For an extra touch, decorate with piped whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices along the edges. It’s now ready to serve and impress.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix smoothly, reducing the chance of lumps.
- Avoid overmixing: Especially after adding eggs. Too much air can cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Don’t skip chilling: Cheesecake needs time to firm up. Overnight chilling yields the best texture.
- Use a water bath: It ensures even baking and prevents cracks. Wrap the outside of your springform pan in foil to keep water out.
Make It Ahead and Store It Right
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is perfect for preparing ahead of time.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare it 1–2 days in advance. Add the strawberry compote and crumble just before serving for the freshest look and texture.
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding toppings and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake slices beautifully and serves well at:
- Summer BBQs and picnics
- Birthdays and anniversaries
- Holiday dinners
- Baby and bridal showers
Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. A drizzle of white chocolate or a few mint leaves on top can also elevate its presentation.
Variations You Can Try
Want to personalize this cheesecake? Try these delicious twists:
- Mixed Berry Topping: Swap strawberries for a combo of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cheesecake for a decadent finish.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing citrus touch.
- No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling for a quicker, oven-free dessert.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Slice)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 25g
Note: Actual values may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that brings joy in every bite. Its layers are rich, vibrant, and beautifully balanced. This crowd-pleasing dessert looks impressive but is totally doable with a little planning.