Save to Pinterest A luscious dessert that marries creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake, topped with a vibrant strawberry layer and a crunchy cookie crumble.
Ingredients
- Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or Golden Oreos, crushed, ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, 2 tbsp sugar
- Cheesecake Layer: 24 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup sour cream, 3 large eggs, room temperature, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Strawberry Layer: 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 fresh strawberries
- Whipped Cream Topping: 2 cups heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Shortcake Crumble: 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 oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Step 2:
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Golden Oreos), sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 3:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Step 4:
- Make the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just slightly wobbly. Remove from oven and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Step 6:
- Prepare the strawberry layer: In a bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Allow to cool and chill until the mixture is slightly thickened but not fully set (about 30–45 minutes).
- Step 7:
- Gently fold in whipped topping and chopped strawberries. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until the layer is firm.
- Step 8:
- Make the whipped cream topping: In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Step 9:
- Prepare the shortcake crumble: In a bowl, combine crushed cookies with melted butter and dry strawberry Jell-O powder. Mix well until crumbs are evenly coated and vibrant in color.
- Step 10:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Step 11:
- Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save to Pinterest Required Tools
9-inch springform pan, Electric mixer or stand mixer, Mixing bowls, Rubber spatula, Measuring cups and spoons, Offset spatula (optional, for smooth layers)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, whipped cream, butter), Eggs, Wheat/Gluten (cookies/crackers), Soy (may be present in cookies), Artificial colors/flavors (Jell-O). If using store-bought cookies or Jell-O, verify labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450, Total Fat: 30g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Protein: 6g
Save to Pinterest This strawberry shortcake cheesecake brings together classic flavors for a memorable dessert perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of crust works best for this dessert?
A crust made from graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Oreos combined with melted butter and sugar provides a sweet, firm base that complements the creamy layers.
- → How should the cheesecake layer be prepared to ensure smooth texture?
Use softened cream cheese and beat it together with sugar until fluffy. Incorporating sour cream and eggs gently helps maintain a creamy, smooth consistency.
- → How can I achieve the strawberry gel layer’s perfect texture?
Dissolve strawberry gelatin powder in boiling and cold water, then chill until slightly thickened before folding in whipped topping and fresh strawberries for a balanced firm layer.
- → What is the purpose of the shortcake crumble topping?
The shortcake crumble combines crushed cookies, butter, and dry strawberry gelatin powder, providing a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the creamy and fruity layers beneath.
- → How long should the dessert be chilled before serving?
Chilling for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allows the layers to set fully and the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer texture and taste.