Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the perfect choice. This delicious treat layers a buttery shortcake base with creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberries. It’s a delightful dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a birthday celebration.

Why Make This Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser. Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor, while the creamy cheesecake filling gives it richness. It’s a fun twist on two classic desserts that everyone will love!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
5 tbsp salted butter, cold
3/4 cup + 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup sugar (for strawberry sauce)
3/4 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
1/4 cup strawberry puree (from about 10 strawberries)
2 lbs strawberries
24 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup sugar (for cheesecake filling)
1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold (for cheesecake filling)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for cheesecake filling)
1 tbsp vanilla extract (for cheesecake filling)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold (for whipped cream)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it. Pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Gradually add the heavy cream, pulsing until just moistened. Gather the dough into a ball and knead gently until smooth. Press it into an even layer in the prepared pan. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
In a saucepan, mix sugar and cornstarch, then stir in the strawberry puree and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until thickened and boiling. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat to cool completely.
Clean the springform pan, spray it with non-stick spray, and reassemble with the cooled shortcake. Slice some strawberries and place them around the edges of the shortcake.
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Then, fold in the remaining whipped cream until combined.
Spread about 1/2 cup of the cheesecake filling on top of the shortcake. Arrange 18-24 strawberries upside down on the filling and spoon the remaining cheesecake filling over the strawberries. Refrigerate for 4-5 hours until firm.
Once firm, remove from the springform pan. Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe around the top edge of the cheesecake. Slice remaining strawberries and arrange them on top inside the whipped cream. Drizzle with cooled strawberry sauce. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Serve your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake chilled. You can slice it into wedges and enjoy it with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a few fresh strawberries on the side.

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Store the leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother filling.
Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the cheesecake filling.

Variation

For a twist, you can add crushed graham crackers to the cheesecake filling for added crunch or use different fruits, like blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

2. How long does it take to chill the cheesecake?
It usually takes about 4-5 hours to chill and firm up in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes! This cheesecake is great for making a day in advance, as the flavors will meld beautifully while it chills.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake with friends and family!