The Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake: A Triple-Layer Delight 🍓🍰
Introduction
Imagine the fluffy tenderness of strawberry shortcake, the rich creaminess of cheesecake, and the buttery crunch of an Oreo crust—all in one breathtaking dessert. This showstopping creation merges three beloved classics into a single, irresistible masterpiece. Perfect for celebrations, summer gatherings, or when you simply deserve something extraordinary, this recipe promises a symphony of textures and flavors in every forkful.
A Slice of History
The concept of combining cheesecake with cake is a modern baking innovation, born from the “cakecak” trend of the early 2000s. Cheesecake itself dates back to ancient Greece, while strawberry shortcake became a Victorian-era tea time favorite. This recipe is a delicious testament to culinary evolution—honoring tradition while embracing creative fusion.
Benefits & Special Notes
· Make-Ahead Friendly: The cheesecake layer can be prepared a day in advance.
· Customizable: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry medley.
· Texture Paradise: Enjoy the contrast of crunchy crust, velvety cheesecake, and light cake.
· Celebration-Worthy: Visually stunning and large enough to feed a crowd.
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Ingredients
Bottom Crust:
· 22 Golden Oreos (or regular Oreos), finely crushed (about 2 cups crumbs)
· 5 Tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer:
· 16 oz (450g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
· ½ cup (120g) full-fat sour cream
· Pinch of salt
Strawberry Shortcake Layer:
· 1 box (15.25 oz) white or vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: typically eggs, oil, water)
· 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
· 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour (to coat strawberries)
Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting:
· 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
· ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar
· 1 tsp vanilla extract
· ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves, cooled
· Pink food coloring (optional, for enhanced color)
Garnish & Assembly:
· 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
· Whole strawberries for top
· Optional: white chocolate shavings, mint leaves
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Instructions
Part 1: Cheesecake Layer (Prepare First)
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each until just combined. Scrape bowl.
4. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and salt until uniform—do not overmix.
5. Pour into prepared pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly.
6. Cool completely in pan, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Part 2: Oreo Crust & Cake Layer
1. Increase oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. For crust: Mix crushed Oreos and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of one cake pan.
3. Prepare cake mix according to package directions. Toss diced strawberries with flour, then fold into batter.
4. Pour cake batter over crust in one pan, and plain batter into the second pan.
5. Bake per box instructions (approx. 25–30 minutes) until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Part 3: Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting
1. Chill a mixing bowl and beaters for 10 minutes.
2. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold in strawberry jam and a drop of pink food coloring (if using) until combined and fluffy.
Part 4: Assembly
1. Layer 1: Place the strawberry-studded cake (with Oreo crust on bottom) on a serving plate.
2. Layer 2: Unmold chilled cheesecake, remove parchment, and place gently on top of cake layer.
3. Layer 3: Top with plain vanilla cake layer.
4. Frost: Apply a thin crumb coat of strawberry whipped cream over entire cake. Chill 20 minutes.
5. Frost generously with remaining whipped cream. Use a spatula or piping bag for decorative touches.
6. Garnish: Arrange sliced strawberries around sides and whole berries on top. Add white chocolate curls if desired.
7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1/12 of cake)
· Calories: ~680
· Total Fat: 42g
· Saturated Fat: 24g
· Cholesterol: 155mg
· Sodium: 480mg
· Total Carbohydrates: 68g
· Dietary Fiber: 1g
· Sugars: 48g
· Protein: 9g
Note: This is an indulgent dessert best enjoyed in moderation.
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For the Love of Dessert Lovers
This cake is a love letter to those who believe more is more. It’s for the celebrants, the comfort-seekers, and the adventurous foodies. Serve it at birthdays, anniversaries, or summer potlucks—and watch eyes light up. Pair with a sparkling Moscato, a dark roast coffee, or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate experience.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake is more than a recipe—it’s an experience. With its trio of textures, balance of sweet and tangy, and stunning visual appeal, it embodies the joy of baking and sharing. While it requires time and care, each bite delivers pure delight, making every moment spent in the kitchen worthwhile. Save this recipe, share it with fellow dessert enthusiasts, and create delicious memories.
Don’t lose it—bookmark it, bake it, and behold the magic! 😋🎂