If you adore the classic charms of strawberry shortcake and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then wait until you try this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe. It is a delightful celebration of textures and flavors, combining moist strawberry-packed cake layers with a rich, velvety cheesecake center and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting crowned by a crunchy shortcake crumble. Every bite offers a perfect balance of sweet strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and buttery crunch that will make this cake the star of any gathering or a special treat just for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from setting the perfect cake crumb to creating a smooth cheesecake layer, and that irresistible frosting and crumble topping. Using fresh strawberries and quality dairy products truly elevates the final result, making this cake as flavorful as it is beautiful.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for the strawberry cake layers.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent for a light, airy cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds rich moisture and helps with tenderizing the cake.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft long after baking.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens every layer perfectly without overpowering the strawberry flavor.
- 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor with a warm, comforting note.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds richness and helps with batter consistency.
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree: Fresh or thawed frozen strawberries blended to infuse the cake with fruity brightness.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped strawberries: Little bursts of strawberry in every bite.
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake layer for its creamy texture and tang.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without masking its delicate flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Ensure the cheesecake layer sets perfectly smooth.
- 1/3 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): For the frosting, creating a silky, spreadable texture.
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened): Lightens the frosting with a fresh tang that complements the cake.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and complexity to the frosting flavor.
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream: Helps adjust frosting consistency for smooth spreading.
- 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos: Provides buttery crunch for the shortcake crumble topping.
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed): Adds intense strawberry flavor with a delightful texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crumble ingredients together for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Pour this luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the cheesecake sets but still jiggles slightly in the center. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling step is key to achieve that perfectly firm yet creamy cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers
While the cheesecake chills, get your strawberry cake layers ready. Heat your oven to 350°F, and grease and line two 9-inch round pans. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl so the leavening is evenly distributed. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this creates many tiny air pockets for a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla, strawberry puree, and whole milk until well incorporated. Gently fold in the dry ingredients followed by the finely chopped strawberries to add fresh fruit bursts throughout the cake. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let the cakes cool completely before assembly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While everything cools, whip up the frosting. Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, which makes spreading easy and the texture light. Gradually blend in the powdered sugar, then stir in vanilla extract. Add heavy cream slowly until you reach a spreadable consistency that isn’t too runny or stiff. This frosting balances sweetness and tang, making it the perfect topping to unite the cake and cheesecake layers flawlessly.
Step 4: Prepare the Shortcake Crumble Topping
For that signature crunch, combine crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until the crumbs are moistened evenly and hold together slightly when pressed. This simple mixture adds a delightful contrast to the creamy frosting and tender cake, giving every bite a hint of buttery crunch and extra strawberry goodness.
Step 5: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Now comes the fun part! Place one strawberry cake layer on your serving plate. Carefully layer the chilled cheesecake atop the first cake layer. Top the cheesecake with the second strawberry cake layer to form a beautiful triple-layered masterpiece. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top with a spatula. Finally, gently press the crumble topping onto the cake’s sides and sprinkle it generously on top for a stunning finish. Chill the assembled cake until you’re ready to serve so everything sets beautifully together.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, add fresh strawberry slices and a few whole freeze-dried strawberries on top of the crumble. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives an elegant, snowy look that instantly draws the eye. If you’re feeling festive, a few edible flower petals or fresh mint leaves add a touch of color and freshness, making each slice a work of art.
Side Dishes
This cake shines as the centerpiece, but it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to cut through the richness. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a simple mixed berry salad or a chilled glass of sparkling rosé, which complements the strawberry flavor beautifully and adds a festive flair to your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dazzle your guests, try serving this cake as mini individual portions by layering cheesecake squares between small rounds of strawberry cake in clear dessert glasses. Garnish each with crumble topping and a strawberry slice for an elegant presentation perfect for parties or intimate gatherings. You could also turn the crumble topping into a decorative border piping to add a touch of sophistication to your cake display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the cream cheese components, refrigeration is essential to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this cake, make sure it is well wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. For best quality, freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. To bring it to room temperature, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. Reheating is not recommended as it can affect the texture of both the cheesecake and frosting, but if you prefer your cake slightly softer, a very brief warm-up in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F for 5-7 minutes) with a loose foil cover can help soften the cake without melting the frosting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the strawberry cake layers?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work wonderfully when thawed and pureed into the batter. Make sure to drain excess liquid to avoid a watery cake batter, and you’ll still get that vibrant strawberry flavor throughout.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese and butter for its signature flavor and texture, so substituting with plant-based alternatives can be tricky but possible. Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes, and a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that texture and taste might vary slightly.
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the strawberry cake layers a day or two in advance. Store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature or refrigerated if your kitchen is warm. This timing makes assembly and baking day much easier and stress-free.
What if I don’t have a springform pan for the cheesecake layer?
If you don’t have a springform pan, a regular 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment or greased well can work. Just be extra careful when removing the cheesecake to avoid cracking. You can also serve it directly in the pan layered with the cake, cutting carefully at serving time.
How can I make the strawberry color more vibrant in the cake?
To enhance the pink hue of your strawberry cake layers, try adding a few drops of natural red food coloring to the batter. This won’t affect the flavor, but will give you that beautiful, eye-catching pink color that screams celebration!
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe is truly a showstopper, marrying the fresh, fruity zing of strawberry shortcake with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake all wrapped in a dreamy cream cheese frosting and crowned with a buttery crumble. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an extraordinary dessert, this cake is bound to become a beloved classic. Don’t hesitate—grab those strawberries and dive into making this magical cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent layered dessert combining a moist strawberry cake, a creamy cheesecake layer, and luscious cream cheese frosting, finished with a crunchy shortcake crumble topping. Perfect for celebrations and strawberry lovers.
Ingredients
For the strawberry cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree (blended fresh or thawed frozen strawberries)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped strawberries
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
For the shortcake crumble topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Make the cheesecake layer: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease the sides. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla, mixing until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes or until set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the strawberry cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, strawberry puree, and milk. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in chopped strawberries. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make the frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract and heavy cream until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Prepare the crumble topping: Combine crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until fully mixed. Set aside.
- Assemble the cake: Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Top evenly with the chilled cheesecake layer. Add the second strawberry cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting. Gently press the crumble topping onto the sides and top of the cake for texture and decoration. Chill the assembled cake until ready to serve.
Notes
- This cake is best made a day ahead to allow the layers to set properly.
- Keep the cake refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- For a more vibrant pink color in the cake, add a few drops of natural red food coloring to the batter.
