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If you dream of a dessert that combines the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the nostalgic sweetness of strawberry shortcake, this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is calling your name. It’s layered with a rich vanilla cheesecake, soft golden cake, and bursts of fresh strawberries, all topped off with a buttery crumble that tastes like sunshine.

This show-stopping dessert brings the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, birthday surprises, or just a weekend when you need something extra special. The combination of textures and flavors will make every bite feel like the first taste of summer.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This dessert is decadent without being overly heavy. It offers a creamy, silky cheesecake center paired with a fluffy cake and juicy strawberries, making it the perfect bite every time. It’s also a beautiful centerpiece that looks like it came from a bakery, but with the pride of saying you made it yourself.

It balances tartness and sweetness just right and has a hint of vanilla that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a picnic, it always disappears fast.

What Kind of Cheesecake Base Works Best?

A classic New York-style cheesecake base works beautifully here because it’s dense enough to hold its shape between the cake layers. Cream cheese is a must, and full-fat versions yield the richest flavor. If you’re short on time, a no-bake cheesecake version can work too, though the structure will be softer.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

The magic of this cheesecake comes from quality ingredients and layering the components just right. Each element plays a role in flavor and texture, so using the best you can find will really make a difference.

• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream
• All-purpose flour
• Butter
• Golden cake mix
• Fresh strawberries
• Strawberry gelatin
• Whipped cream

Each component adds richness, stability, or brightness to the final dessert. The strawberries are the star, of course, but the cheesecake filling brings a creamy tang while the cake adds softness and nostalgia.

How To Make the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Step 1: Bake the Cheesecake Base

Start by making your cheesecake layer. Beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream. Pour into a springform pan and bake until set. Let it cool completely and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Layers

Use a golden cake mix to prepare two soft, fluffy layers. Bake according to the package instructions and let them cool fully. These will sandwich your cheesecake and hold everything together.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

Mix crushed golden cookies (or vanilla-flavored sandwich cookies) with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder. This gives you that nostalgic strawberry crunch texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Add the cheesecake layer on top, followed by the second cake layer. Spread whipped cream over the entire surface.

Step 5: Decorate with Strawberries and Crunch

Press the strawberry crunch mixture around the sides and top. Finish with halved fresh strawberries and extra whipped cream rosettes for a bakery-style finish.

How to Serve and Store Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This recipe serves about 10 to 12 people generously, making it perfect for celebrations. Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator, with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

To store, cover the cheesecake lightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to a month.

What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?

Fresh Lemonade

The bright citrusy contrast makes each bite of cheesecake even more refreshing.

Cold Brew Coffee

A smooth, chilled brew helps balance the richness of the dessert.

Sparkling Rosé

For grown-up gatherings, a lightly fizzy rosé pairs beautifully with strawberries.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

If you want to double-down on dessert, this keeps things creamy and classic.

Basil or Mint Garnish

A sprinkle of fresh herbs offers a surprise lift to each serving.

Chocolate Drizzle

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a thin ribbon of dark chocolate adds sophistication.

Almond Biscotti

Crisp biscotti adds texture and makes for a fun pairing.

Berry Compote

For even more fruit-forward flavor, a spoonful of warm berry sauce goes wonderfully on the side.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If this strawberry shortcake cheesecake made you swoon, you’re going to love these other delightful options from Luna Meals:

• No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake for a southern-inspired cool treat.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls if you’re in the mood for soft pillowy sweetness.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread when you crave deep chocolate decadence.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies for a crunchy and creamy bite.
• Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe when you want an easier fruit-based classic.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist of lemon? Layer some jam inside? Or maybe used gluten-free cake mix?

I love seeing your creations and hearing how others make this recipe their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s a memory in the making. Whether it’s the creamy center, the juicy strawberries, or the nostalgic crunch, each element brings joy. Make it once, and it might just become your new favorite celebration cake.

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