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Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

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For dessert lovers craving a show-stopping treat, the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake delivers everything you want in one bite: a buttery shortcake crust, creamy cheesecake filling, sweet macerated strawberries, and a crunchy crumble topping. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or indulgent weekend baking. Its layered textures and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among family and friends.

Designed to be visually stunning and irresistibly tasty, this cheesecake combines the best of two classic desserts: strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake. With high-traffic keywords like “easy cheesecake recipe,” “strawberry dessert,” and “best cheesecake recipe,” this article is optimized for SEO and monetization.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines strawberry shortcake and cheesecake in one dessert
  • Creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced with a crunchy topping
  • Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or entertaining guests
  • Can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free hosting
  • Versatile: easily customize toppings and flavors

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Ingredients Breakdown

Shortcake Crust

The foundation of this cheesecake is a buttery shortcake crust. Using cold butter and minimal liquid ensures a tender, firm base that holds the cheesecake together while adding a subtle sweetness.

Cheesecake Layer

Cream cheese provides richness and creaminess, while sour cream or Greek yogurt adds tang and helps the cheesecake set smoothly. Eggs and sugar create structure, and a small amount of flour ensures a silky, crack-resistant texture.

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Strawberry Topping

Fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice make a natural, bright topping. Macerating the berries softens them slightly and releases natural juices for added flavor. Optional strawberry jam creates a glossy finish.

Crunchy Crumble

A mixture of flour, sugar, butter, and optional toasted nuts adds a satisfying crunch, balancing the creamy cheesecake layer. Baking the crumble separately ensures it stays crisp.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use room-temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake.
  • Gradually incorporate eggs at low speed to prevent cracks.
  • Bake with a water bath to maintain moisture and minimize cracking.
  • Cool cheesecake slowly in the oven before transferring to the fridge.
  • Drain strawberry juices to prevent a soggy top.
  • Store in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Variations and Customizations

  • Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
  • Add chocolate chips or white chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
  • Use almond or graham cracker crust instead of shortcake for a flavor twist.
  • Substitute sour cream with mascarpone for a richer cheesecake layer.
  • Include a layer of strawberry jam between crust and cheesecake for enhanced flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
  • Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso.
  • Lightly sweetened iced tea or sparkling lemonade complements the tart strawberries.
  • Garnish with fresh mint for an added burst of color and flavor.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
  • Freezing: Cheesecake can be frozen before adding the strawberry topping and crumble for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the cheesecake ahead of time. Keep topping separate until serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Use room-temperature ingredients, mix at low speed, and bake with a water bath if possible.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour in the crust and crumble with gluten-free flour blends.

Can I use a different nut in the crumble?
Absolutely! Almonds, pecans, or walnuts all work beautifully.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Caroline

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake combines a buttery shortcake crust, rich and creamy cheesecake, sweet macerated strawberries, and a golden crunchy crumble. A show-stopping dessert with layers of fruity, creamy, and crisp textures—perfect for celebrations and make-ahead entertaining.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Cheesecake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for shortcake crust)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for shortcake crust)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cheesecake)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for cheesecake)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp strawberry jam (optional)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crumble)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (for crumble)
  • 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans (optional)

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer
  • saucepan
  • Rubber spatula
  • whisk
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and parchment-line a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. Mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form. Add egg yolk, vanilla, and cream. Press into pan.
  3. Bake crust 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
  4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar gradually. Add eggs one at a time on low.
  5. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and flour. Pour over cooled crust and smooth.
  6. Bake 50–60 minutes until edges set and center slightly jiggly. Cool 15–20 minutes in oven, then chill 4+ hours.
  7. Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Rest 15–20 minutes. Stir in jam if using. Drain excess juice.
  8. Mix flour and sugar, cut in butter, and bake crumbs 10–12 minutes until golden. Cool.
  9. Remove chilled cheesecake from pan. Top with strawberries and sprinkle crumble over top.
  10. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping blade between cuts.

Notes

Chill the cheesecake fully before slicing for clean layers. Keep the strawberry topping and crumble separate until serving for the best texture. Ideal for birthdays, parties, or holiday gatherings.

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