Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a stunning dessert that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet freshness of strawberry shortcake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping, this indulgent treat is perfect for celebrations, summer gatherings, or when you simply want to impress with dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes everything you love about strawberry shortcake and elevates it with a luscious cheesecake base. The graham cracker crust offers the perfect buttery crunch, while the filling is silky, smooth, and gently sweet. Topped with macerated strawberries, this cheesecake delivers a refreshing contrast of flavor and texture. It’s an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
-
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
-
4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
4 large eggs
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
-
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
-
Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly. -
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. -
Bake the Cheesecake
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. -
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
Toss gently and let sit for 30 minutes to release juices and enhance flavor. -
Serve
Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan.
Spoon the strawberry topping over the top just before serving.
Slice and enjoy this rich, fruity dessert.
Servings and Timing
-
Prep Time: 20 minutes
-
Cook Time: 60 minutes
-
Chill Time: 4 hours
-
Total Time: 5 hours
-
Servings: 12 slices
-
Calories per Serving: Approximately 480 kcal
Variations
-
Strawberry Crunch Topping: Add crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos for a crunchy finish.
-
Berry Mix: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a colorful topping.
-
Jam Glaze: Drizzle with strawberry jam for extra sweetness and shine.
-
No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake base if you prefer a quicker, oven-free option.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
-
Freezing: Freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake without the topping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
-
Reheating: Not applicable. Cheesecake is best served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before tossing with sugar and lemon juice.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks in cheesecake?
Avoid over-mixing the batter and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This cheesecake can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Do I need a water bath?
It’s not required for this recipe, but using a water bath can help prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, but ensure it’s in a springform pan to accommodate the cheesecake filling and allow for easy release.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, ultra-creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet, fresh strawberry topping. A stunning and delicious dessert for any celebration or special occasion. Keyword: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
-
4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
4 large eggs
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
-
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly. -
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mix well.
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Pour over crust. -
Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake for 55–60 minutes until center is set and edges are golden.
Turn off oven and let cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
Chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. -
Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
Toss strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl.
Let sit for 30 minutes to macerate. -
Serve:
Remove cheesecake from springform pan.
Spoon strawberry topping over the top. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
-
Use a water bath during baking for extra-smooth results.
-
Can be made a day ahead for convenience.
-
Add whipped cream or strawberry crunch topping for extra flair.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *