Save A luscious dessert that marries creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake, topped with a vibrant strawberry layer and a crunchy cookie crumble.
This strawberry shortcake cheesecake quickly became a family favorite thanks to its layered flavors and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or Golden Oreos, crushed, ½ cup unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp sugar
- Cheesecake Layer: 24 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup sour cream, 3 large eggs room temperature, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Strawberry Layer: 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O, 1 cup boiling water, ½ cup cold water, 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or whipped cream), 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- Whipped Cream Topping: 2 cups heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Shortcake Crumble: 20 Golden Oreos or vanilla cookies, crushed, 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O powder (dry)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare Crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Golden Oreos), sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake Crust:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just incorporated.
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just slightly wobbly. Remove from oven and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Prepare Strawberry Layer:
- In a bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Allow to cool and chill until the mixture is slightly thickened but not fully set (about 30–45 minutes). Gently fold in whipped topping and chopped strawberries. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until the layer is firm.
- Make Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Prepare Shortcake Crumble:
- In a bowl, combine crushed cookies with melted butter and dry strawberry Jell-O powder. Mix well until crumbs are evenly coated and vibrant in color.
- Assemble:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer. Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save This dessert is a star during family gatherings, always bringing smiles and requests for seconds.
Required Tools
9-inch springform pan, electric mixer or stand mixer, mixing bowls, rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, offset spatula (optional for smooth layers).
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cream cheese sour cream whipped cream butter), Eggs, Wheat/Gluten (cookies crackers), Soy (may be present in cookies), Artificial colors flavors (Jell-O). Verify labels for potential allergens if using store-bought products.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 30g, Carbohydrates 40g, Protein 6g.
Save This strawberry shortcake cheesecake brings together layers of flavor and texture making it an unforgettable treat.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of crust is used for this dessert?
It uses a crust of graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Oreos mixed with melted butter and sugar, baked lightly for firmness.
- → How is the strawberry layer prepared?
The strawberry layer is made by dissolving strawberry gelatin in hot water, then folding in cold water, whipped topping, and fresh chopped strawberries before chilling.
- → What ensures the cheesecake stays creamy and smooth?
Softened cream cheese, gentle mixing of eggs, and thorough chilling help maintain a creamy, smooth texture without cracks.
- → Can the shortcake crumble be substituted?
Yes, the crumble uses crushed Golden Oreos or vanilla cookies combined with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder for color and flavor.
- → Why is resting the cheesecake important?
Chilling for several hours allows the layers to set properly, enhances texture, and melds flavors for a balanced finish.