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