Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake: The Ultimate Dessert You Can’t Resist

If you love both strawberry shortcake and cheesecake (who doesn’t?), this dessert is for you. Imagine a rich, creamy cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries and sitting on a buttery, crumbly crust. That’s a Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake—a treat that combines the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family get-together, or just to enjoy, this dessert will impress. But before we jump into the delicious recipe, let’s first explore what makes this treat so special.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

What is Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?

A Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake mixes the best parts of cheesecake and strawberry shortcake. You get a creamy cheesecake made from cream cheese, sugar, and eggs, all sitting on a buttery graham cracker or sponge cake crust. It’s smooth, rich, and sweet.

Add fresh strawberries, and you have a dessert that’s rich and fruity at the same time. The strawberries can top the cheesecake or even be mixed into the filling, giving the dessert a burst of freshness. This dessert has the creamy, soft texture of cheesecake with the light, fruity flavor of strawberry shortcake.

How is it Different from Traditional Strawberry Shortcake and Cheesecake?

Traditional strawberry shortcake uses biscuit-like cakes, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. It’s light and fluffy, focusing on the cake. Cheesecake, however, is dense, creamy, and often served chilled.

The Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake blends these two desserts perfectly. It’s rich like cheesecake but still has that fresh strawberry flavor. It’s a treat that brings the best of both worlds in one delicious bite.

The History Behind Strawberry Shortcake and Cheesecake

The Origin of Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is a dessert that has been loved for centuries. Its beginnings go back to the 16th century when early versions were made with simple cakes or biscuits topped with strawberries. Over time, the dessert evolved, particularly in America. In the 19th century, it became a summer favorite, featuring a biscuit-style cake layered with strawberries and cream.

As the years went on, strawberry shortcake grew in popularity, with many variations emerging. Today, it’s typically made with sponge cakes or pound cakes instead of biscuits, but the key ingredients—strawberries and cream—remain central to its appeal. It’s a dessert perfect for hot summer days, family picnics, and festive occasions.

The Evolution of Cheesecake and Its Variations

The history of cheesecake stretches back even further. The ancient Greeks were the first to create a version of cheesecake using cheese, honey, and flour. However, it was the Romans who helped spread the concept across Europe. By the 18th century, cheesecake became a popular dessert in the U.S., with New York-style cheesecake becoming one of the most famous variations, known for its rich and creamy texture.

Today, there are countless variations of cheesecake. Some are baked, while others, like no-bake cheesecakes, are prepared without an oven. Whether it’s topped with fruits, chocolate, or caramel, cheesecake continues to be a dessert that’s loved worldwide.

The Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake blends these two beloved desserts, offering the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity burst of strawberry shortcake—combining the best of both worlds.

The Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 2 pounds cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
• For the Strawberry Topping:
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Making the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.

Preparing the Strawberry Topping

While the crust cools, slice the fresh strawberries and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle them with sugar and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the berries and set them aside for 15 minutes, allowing them to release their natural juices.

Assembling the Cheesecake

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix it in. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once the eggs are mixed in, stir in the sour cream.

Pour the cheesecake mixture onto the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

Baking and Chilling Instructions

After the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Just before serving, top the cheesecake with the fresh strawberry mixture. The juices from the strawberries will soak into the cheesecake, adding a burst of flavor with each bite.

For more delicious dessert recipes, check out our Olympic Chocolate Muffins Recipe to try something equally indulgent!

Nutritional Information (Per 100g)

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content of a Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake:

Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Selecting the Right Strawberries

When making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, the key to a great topping is using fresh, ripe strawberries. Always choose strawberries that are bright red, firm, and plump. Avoid berries that are overripe or have soft spots, as they can release too much liquid and make your cheesecake soggy. You can even consider using locally grown strawberries if they’re in season, as they’ll have the best flavor and texture.

How to Make a No-Bake Version

If you want to skip the oven, a no-bake version of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a fantastic alternative. Instead of baking the cheesecake, you can use a mixture of cream cheese, whipped cream, and a little gelatin to create a no-bake filling. The crust can still be made with graham crackers and butter, but instead of baking the filling, simply chill it in the fridge for a few hours to let it set. This version is just as delicious and perfect for hot weather or when you’re short on time.

You can also check out our Garlic Herb Butter Recipe to elevate your meal alongside a decadent dessert like this cheesecake.

Flavor Variations: Add-ons and Substitutions

While the classic Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is amazing on its own, you can always play around with flavors. For example, try mixing in other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even mangoes. For an extra twist, you can incorporate flavored extracts such as almond or lemon into the cheesecake batter to give it a unique touch. You can also switch up the crust by using crushed graham crackers mixed with coconut or nuts for a more complex flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

For more delicious treats, why not check out our Pillsbury Valentines Cookie Dough for an easy, fun baking experience!

Why Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is Perfect for Any Occasion

Ideal for Celebrations and Holidays

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, family gathering, or holiday feast. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a showstopper on any dessert table. For holidays like Christmas or Easter, you can even decorate it with additional fresh berries or whipped cream to match the season.

Serving Suggestions for a Beautiful Presentation

To make your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake extra special, presentation is key. For an elegant touch, serve individual slices topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra strawberries. You can also drizzle a little strawberry syrup over the top for added sweetness and color. For a more rustic look, serve the cheesecake on a wooden board or platter with some fresh mint leaves for decoration.

Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake always elevates the moment. And with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get tired of this delightful dessert.

For more dessert inspiration, check out our Clarified Cocktail Recipes Guide to pair with your sweet treat!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake FAQs

What is the Difference Between Strawberry Cake and Strawberry Shortcake?

While strawberry shortcake and strawberry cake sound similar, they are actually quite different in terms of texture and structure. Strawberry shortcake is made with a biscuit or sponge-like cake, layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It has a light, fluffy texture and a refreshing taste. On the other hand, strawberry cake is a more traditional cake made with flour, sugar, and usually strawberry flavoring either from pureed strawberries or artificial flavoring. The texture of strawberry cake is denser compared to the airy layers of shortcake. While both desserts feature strawberries, strawberry shortcake is the lighter, fluffier option.

What Are the Three Types of Cheesecake?

Cheesecake comes in many forms, but there are three main types that are widely popular.

1. New York Cheesecake: This is the most traditional type, made with cream cheese and eggs, resulting in a dense, rich texture.
2. No-Bake Cheesecake: As the name suggests, this cheesecake doesn’t require baking. Instead, it uses gelatin or whipped cream to set the filling.
3. Chicago-Style Cheesecake: This variety is often richer and heavier than New York cheesecake and may include a buttery, thicker crust. It’s also typically made with a combination of cream cheese and mascarpone.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake can be adapted into any of these styles depending on your preference!

What Are the Ingredients of Strawberry Shortcake?

The traditional strawberry shortcake recipe includes just a few simple ingredients: shortcake biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Some variations use sponge cake or even pound cake as the base. The key to a great strawberry shortcake is to use ripe, juicy strawberries, which provide the perfect sweetness to balance the light, crumbly texture of the cake and the creamy richness of the whipped cream.

Why is Cake Called Shortcake?

The term “shortcake” comes from the word “short,” which refers to the crumbly, tender texture of the cake. The term “short” is actually derived from the old English word “shorten,” meaning to make something crumbly by using fat, such as butter or shortening. So, a shortcake is essentially a cake that has a dense, crumbly texture, which is what makes it perfect for layering with fresh fruit and cream.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Nutritional Information and Tips

Calories and Nutritional Breakdown

Like most desserts, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake can be indulgent, but it’s worth every bite. A typical serving of this dessert (about 100g) packs around 300 calories. The cheesecake is rich in fat due to its creamy filling and buttery crust, which contributes to its luscious taste. For those looking to indulge without going overboard, consider serving smaller portions or enjoying it as a special treat for a holiday or family gathering.

Here’s a simple breakdown of its nutritional content per 100g:

How to Make a Lighter Version of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

For a lighter version of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, you can reduce the calorie content by using a few simple swaps. Instead of heavy cream cheese, use lower-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. For the crust, try using a combination of crushed graham crackers and oats to reduce fat. You can also use a sugar substitute or cut down the sugar content to make the dessert a bit healthier without compromising flavor. The strawberries on top remain a healthy, natural sweetener, so you can enjoy the flavor of the dessert while keeping it on the lighter side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Overmixing the Filling

One of the most common mistakes when making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is overmixing the filling. It’s tempting to keep beating the mixture to ensure a smooth texture, but overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter. This can cause the cheesecake to crack or even collapse while baking. To avoid this, mix the ingredients just until they are well combined. It’s important to stop once everything is smooth and creamy.

Using the Wrong Type of Cheese

Another mistake people often make is using the wrong type of cheese. While some recipes call for mascarpone or ricotta, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake traditionally uses cream cheese, which gives it the rich, dense texture that is essential for a great cheesecake. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency. Low-fat cream cheese can make the filling too runny, leading to a less desirable texture.

Not Chilling Long Enough

It’s crucial to give your cheesecake enough time to set in the refrigerator. If you don’t chill it long enough, the filling may not firm up properly, and your cheesecake may not hold its shape. For the best results, refrigerate your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Patience is key when making this dessert—it will be worth the wait!

Where to Find the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Popular Bakeries and Online Shops

If you’re not in the mood to bake your own Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, don’t worry! There are plenty of bakeries and online shops that offer this delicious dessert. Many local bakeries, especially those specializing in cakes and cheesecakes, carry versions of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. You can even find pre-made options in your local grocery stores, particularly around holidays when desserts like this are in high demand.

Local Alternatives for Delivery or Pickup

For a more convenient option, many bakeries offer delivery services, so you can have fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake delivered right to your door. If you’re craving a slice but don’t want to bake, check out nearby dessert shops or look for delivery services in your area. Many also allow you to place custom orders, so you can request a special topping or flavor to suit your preferences.

For a treat that’s as good as homemade, these local spots and delivery options make it easy to enjoy Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake any time!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake The Ultimate Dessert You Can’t Resist

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• Author: Chef Cora
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Make the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake with creamy layers fresh strawberries and a buttery crust A dessert you can’t resist

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup sugar
6 tablespoons butter melted
2 pounds cream cheese softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F 163°C In a bowl combine the graham cracker crumbs sugar and melted butter Stir until everything is evenly mixed
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan Bake for about 10 minutes then remove it from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling
In a mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth Add the vanilla extract and mix well
Add the eggs one by one mixing well after each Finally stir in the sour cream
Pour the cheesecake mixture into the cooled crust and smooth the top Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set
Allow the cheesecake to cool before chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight
Prepare the strawberry topping by mixing sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice Top the cheesecake with the strawberries before serving

Notes

Make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for best results
You can use a no-bake version by swapping the baked cheesecake filling with a cream cheese-based filling that sets in the fridge

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice 100g
• Calories: 300 kcal
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: Fat 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cheesecake recipe Strawberry dessert Cheesecake with strawberries Easy cheesecake recipe