Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in this irresistible recipe. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious strawberry layer, and a rich cheesecake filling, this dessert is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. Each slice offers a refreshing burst of strawberries paired with the smooth texture of cheesecake, making it a crowd-pleaser for all.
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one delicious creation. Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, it showcases the best of both worlds.
A Perfect Dessert for All Occasions
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that shines at both casual gatherings and formal celebrations. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a birthday party, or a holiday feast, this delightful dessert will impress your guests. Its beautiful presentation, featuring vibrant strawberries atop a creamy cheesecake, not only tastes fantastic but also adds a pop of color to your dessert table.
This cheesecake is particularly loved for its blend of textures. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a lovely crunch, while the creamy cheesecake filling brings a smooth, rich flavor. The fresh strawberry layer heightens the overall experience with its juicy burst, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. It's this contrast that makes it the star of any dessert spread.
Preparing Ahead of Time
One of the best features of this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is its make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare it a day or two in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy hosts. The cheesecake needs to chill for at least four hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This advance preparation means less stress and more time to enjoy your event with guests.
If you're looking to impress even further, consider making a homemade strawberry sauce to drizzle over each slice before serving. This additional layer enhances the overall experience and makes the dessert feel even more special. Guests will appreciate the extra touch, and it’s a great way to use any extra strawberries you might have.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake
Achieving the perfect cheesecake can be a challenge, but following some simple tips can lead to success. Firstly, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve a smoother texture. Beat the cream cheese and sugar thoroughly to prevent lumps, and incorporate the eggs one at a time to maintain the structure of the batter.
Also, remember to cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven after baking. This gradual cooling reduces the chances of cracking and helps maintain a dense, creamy center. Lastly, ensure your strawberries are fresh and ripe to capture the full essence of their flavor in the topping. With these tips, your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake will turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the strawberry layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Make sure to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool.
Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
Assemble the cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until set and slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for 1 hour.
Prepare the strawberry layer
In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
Finish the cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, pour the strawberry mixture on top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Slice and serve chilled for the best taste!
Pairing Suggestions
When serving Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, consider pairing it with a light, refreshing drink. Iced tea infused with lemon or a glass of sparkling water can complement the cheesecake beautifully. For those who enjoy a more indulgent experience, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side adds an extra layer of creaminess to the dessert.
For wine lovers, a glass of Moscato or a light rosé can elevate your dessert experience. Both wines' fruity characteristics enhance the strawberry flavors, providing a perfect balance to the rich cheesecake. Whatever your choice, these pairings will ensure that your dessert remains the highlight of the meal.
Storage Tips
To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake remains fresh for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Once prepared and chilled, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to avoid absorbing any refrigerator odors. It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
If you find yourself with leftovers, consider freezing slices for a later treat. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This way, you can savor the delightful taste of strawberry shortcake cheesecake at your convenience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for better texture and flavor.
→ How long does this cheesecake last?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Experience the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in this irresistible recipe. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious strawberry layer, and a rich cheesecake filling, this dessert is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. Each slice offers a refreshing burst of strawberries paired with the smooth texture of cheesecake, making it a crowd-pleaser for all.
Created by: Tabitha Green
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the strawberry layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until set and slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for 1 hour.
In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, pour the strawberry mixture on top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 5g