Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a divine dessert that beautifully marries two beloved treats into one luscious slice. This layered confection features a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping that sings of summer. Each bite is a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors, bringing together the richness of cheesecake with the light, refreshing taste of strawberries. At any gathering, this showstopper will not only tantalize your taste buds but also sweep your heart away. It’s undoubtedly worth making for any occasion, whether it be a festive celebration or a quiet family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake should be at the top of your baking list. For starters, it is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. This recipe involves a step-by-step approach, ensuring that even those new to the kitchen can whip it up without a hitch. It’s a dish that the entire family will adore, combining familiar flavors in an exciting new way. Plus, the absence of complicated ingredients means you can make it with ease without sacrificing taste or presentation.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

• 1 1/2 cups crushed shortbread cookies
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

These ingredients come together in a magical dance of sweetness and creaminess. The crushed shortbread cookies create a delightful crunch that serves as the perfect base, while the cream cheese forms a silky, rich filling that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Bright, ripe strawberries, sliced and tossed in just the right amount of sugar and lemon juice, finish off this masterpiece with a refreshing burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Make the Crust

Begin by mixing the 1 1/2 cups of crushed shortbread cookies with 1/4 cup of melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated, creating a sandy texture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, forming a solid base for your cheesecake. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, gently stir in 1 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and incredibly smooth.

Bake the Cheesecake

Once the filling is ready, pour it over the chilled shortbread crust in the springform pan. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake the cheesecake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges look set but the center has a slight jiggle. After baking, let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best results.

Prepare the Topping

While the cheesecake cools, prepare the delicious strawberry topping. In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries, 2 tbsp of sugar, and 1 tsp of lemon juice. Allow this mixture to sit for about 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors of the strawberries, making them an irresistible topping.

Top the Cheesecake

After the cheesecake has cooled and set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Spoon the prepared strawberry topping over the cheesecake just before serving, allowing the juicy strawberries to cascade beautifully, creating a visually-appealing treat.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve a perfectly creamy cheesecake, ensure that all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to eliminate lumps and results in a smoother filling. If you want a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract in addition to the vanilla. For a touch of extra sweetness, you can also garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake shines on its own, but there are several creative ways to make it even more special. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to balance its richness. For a festive touch, consider decorating it with mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color that will impress your guests.

Nutritional Information

While Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a delightful indulgence, moderation is key. A typical slice contains approximately 350 calories with about 25 grams of fat, 27 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of protein. It’s not the lightest dessert, but it’s a wonderful treat for special occasions. Enjoying it mindfully means savoring every bite while celebrating life’s sweet moments.

Storing Tips & Variations for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you plan to make it in advance, you can freeze the cheesecake (without the strawberry topping) for up to a month. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and serve chilled. For healthier variations, consider swapping the cream cheese for a lower-fat alternative or using Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream for added protein. You can change up the fruit topping as well; blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry medley are delicious alternatives!

Conclusion for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is an irresistible option that beautifully combines two beloved desserts into one stunning treat. Its easy preparation, delightful flavors, and beautiful presentation make it a must-try for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to dazzle both your palate and your guests. So why wait? Grab those ingredients and get ready to create something truly sensational!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add the strawberry topping right before serving.

2. What can I use instead of shortbread cookies for the crust?

You can use graham cracker crumbs or Oreo cookie crumbs for a different flavor.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh are not available. Just remember to thaw and drain them before using.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the shortbread cookies with gluten-free cookies or simply use almond flour mixed with melted butter to create a gluten-free crust.

5. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

With these tips and steps, you are all set to create a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake that will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire! Happy baking!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This layered confection features a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping that sings of summer, bringing together the richness of cheesecake with the light, refreshing taste of strawberries.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 5 hours hrs

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Crust

• 1.5 cups crushed shortbread cookies
• 0.25 cups melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure it's at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• 0.5 cups sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 pcs eggs Add one at a time.
• 1 cups sour cream
• 0.25 cups heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping

• 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Method

 

Make the Crust

1. Combine 1.5 cups of crushed shortbread cookies with 0.25 cups of melted butter in a bowl. Stir until evenly coated, then press into the bottom of a springform pan.
2. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.

Prepare the Filling

1. Beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese, 0.5 cups sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add 2 eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
3. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream and 0.25 cups of heavy cream until thick and creamy.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan.
2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
3. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Topping

1. Mix 1.5 cups of sliced strawberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 30 minutes.

Top the Cheesecake

1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and spoon the strawberry topping over it just before serving.

Notes

For a creamier cheesecake, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Consider adding a tsp of almond extract for deeper flavor. Garnish with whipped cream or powdered sugar before serving.