Introduction

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a delightful twist on two beloved desserts. Combining a creamy cheesecake base with a fruity strawberry topping and a crunchy shortcake crumble, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress your guests with a rich, layered treat.

The image shows a slice of layered strawberry cheesecake with four distinct layers. At the bottom, there is a thick, golden-brown crumbly crust. Above that, a creamy pale yellow cheesecake layer is mixed with visible pieces of fresh red strawberries. The third layer is light pink, smooth and creamy, topped with a thin white cream layer. The very top is covered with a crumbly strawberry topping in bright pink and red colors. The slice is placed on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or Golden Oreos, crushed)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar
24 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup sugar
1 cup sour cream
3 large eggs (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or whipped cream)
1 cup chopped strawberries
2 cups heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
20 Golden Oreos (or vanilla cookies), crushed
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O powder (dry)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ½ cup melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
Step 3: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition.
Step 5: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is slightly wobbly but mostly set. Let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Step 6: Dissolve the 3 oz strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in ½ cup cold water. Chill the mixture until it thickens but is not fully set.
Step 7: Gently fold the whipped topping and chopped strawberries into the slightly thickened Jell-O. Spread this strawberry layer evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until the layer is firm.
Step 8: Whip 2 cups heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the strawberry layer.
Step 9: Crush the 20 Golden Oreos (or vanilla cookies), then combine with 4 tablespoons melted butter and 1 box dry strawberry Jell-O powder. Sprinkle this crumble generously over the whipped cream layer to create the signature shortcake topping.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry topping before chilling.
Use fresh strawberries for the best texture and taste; frozen strawberries may add excess moisture.
You can substitute the graham crackers with vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different crust flavor.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the cheesecake and whipped cream layers slightly.

Storage

Store the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the crumble topping crisp, add it just before serving if possible. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a slice of a layered dessert with four clear layers. The bottom layer is a brown crumbly crust. Above that is a thick creamy white layer with visible pieces of fresh red strawberries. The third layer is a smooth pink cream with strawberry bits, while the top layer is a mix of pink and white cream topped with pink crumbly bits. The colors range from brown at the bottom, to white with red strawberry pieces, then light pink, finishing with a textured pink topping. The dessert slice sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake benefits from resting in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.

Can I use fresh gelatin instead of Jell-O powder?

Yes, you can substitute fresh gelatin, but follow the package instructions carefully for equivalent amounts and preparation to achieve the right consistency.