5-Star Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave

Okay, confession time – I may have fallen down a serious TikTok rabbit hole watching all those strawberry shortcake cheesecake videos! The creamy cheesecake layer with that strawberry shortcake crunch on top? Absolute magic. When I saw the combo trending everywhere, I knew I had to test it for my niece’s birthday. The first bite had everyone at the party gasping – it’s that perfect mix of silky smooth and delightfully crispy.

What makes this strawberry shortcake cheesecake special isn’t just how insanely delicious it is (though trust me, it is). It’s how the flavors play together – the tangy cream cheese, the sweet-tart strawberries, and that golden crumble topping that gives such satisfying texture. My kitchen smelled incredible while it baked, with hints of vanilla and fresh berries filling the air. Let me show you how to make the version that’s become our family’s new favorite dessert!

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Friends, prepare to fall head over heels for this dessert! Imagine the creamiest cheesecake meeting those dreamy strawberry shortcake crunchies. TikTok went wild for good reason – this combo is pure magic.

• That perfect texture contrast – silky smooth meets satisfyingly crispy
• Always the star at parties (my sister requests it for every summer BBQ)
• Simple enough for weeknights but fancy enough for birthdays
• So versatile – swap berries, try different crusts, or make it no-bake

Seriously though, the first time I made this, my neighbors smelled it baking and suddenly “needed sugar.” You’ve been warned – it’s dangerous deliciousness!

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Get ready to gather the ingredients that make this strawberry shortcake cheesecake pure dessert perfection! Every component has its special role in creating that iconic texture we all love – the creamy cheesecake, the shortcake crunch, and those luscious strawberries. Trust me, it’s worth measuring carefully for best results.

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box strawberry cake mix (the secret to that viral crunch!)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup strawberry jam

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

This strawberry shortcake cheesecake comes together beautifully when you take time with each component. The fresh berries shine against the rich cheesecake, while that cake mix crumble adds the signature texture everyone raves about.

Equipment You’ll Need

Let me tell you exactly what I reach for when making this strawberry shortcake cheesecake – you probably have most of these in your kitchen already!

• A trusty 9×13 inch baking pan – size matters for that perfect thickness!
• Parchment paper with overhang (trust me, you’ll thank me when serving)
• Mixing bowls (I use one large and one medium)
• Electric mixer (or strong arms and a whisk if you’re feeling adventurous)
• Saucepan for those juicy strawberries
• Rubber spatula – can’t let any cheesecake batter go to waste!

That’s really it! See? Nothing fancy needed for this viral-worthy dessert. Now let’s get baking!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Friends, I’m obsessed with putting together this strawberry shortcake cheesecake – it’s become my signature dessert for summer gatherings! The contrast between the creamy cheesecake and that addictive strawberry shortcake crunch makes every bite magical. Let me walk you through my foolproof method for creating this showstopper that always gets rave reviews (and recipe requests!).

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

The foundation of our strawberry shortcake cheesecake starts with this simple graham cracker base. Mix the crumbs with sugar and melted butter until it resembles wet sand – I like to use my hands for this part! Press firmly into your pan using the bottom of a measuring cup for even distribution. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Here’s where our strawberry shortcake cheesecake gets its luxurious texture! Start with room temperature cream cheese – this ensures a silky smooth filling without lumps. Beat it with sugar and vanilla until creamy, then incorporate the eggs one at a time. Fold in the sour cream gently to maintain that dreamy consistency. Pour this luscious mixture over your cooled crust.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble

Here comes the star of our strawberry shortcake cheesecake – that signature crunchy topping! Combine dry strawberry cake mix with melted butter until clumpy (this creates the perfect shortcake texture). Sprinkle HALF evenly over the cheesecake layer – we’ll save the rest for garnish. Trust me, balancing these amounts gives the ideal crunch-to-cream ratio!

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake your strawberry shortcake cheesecake for 45-55 minutes – the edges should be set while the center has a slight jiggle (like barely set jello). Let it cool completely on a wire rack – rushing this step causes the toppings to slide right off! I usually wait about 2 hours before proceeding.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While cooling, make the glossy strawberry layer that makes this cheesecake unforgettable. Simmer fresh berries with jam until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens slightly – about 5 minutes does the trick. Cool completely (warm topping melts cheesecake – learned that the hard way!). For extra brightness, I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon.

Step 6: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

The moment we’ve been waiting for! Spread cooled strawberry topping evenly over your cheesecake, then sprinkle with remaining crumble for that irresistible strawberry shortcake crunch. Right before serving, add billowy whipped cream – I pipe rosettes around the edges for extra flair. Slice with a hot knife for picture-perfect portions of this strawberry shortcake cheesecake masterpiece!

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Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

After baking dozens of versions of this dessert (my coworkers keep requesting it for potlucks!), I’ve perfected these must-know tricks for flawless results every time. Remember – good cheesecake is all about patience and technique.

• Take the chill off ingredients! Room temperature cream cheese blends smoother and prevents lumps
• Mix just until combined – overbeating incorporates too much air and causes cracks
• Want a shortcut? Store-bought shortbread cookies make an incredible quick crumble topping
• Let it rest overnight for clean slices and deeper flavors

The secret to that signature texture? A gentle touch with each component. When everything comes together just right, you’ll understand why this dessert goes viral!

Variations of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

The beauty of this dessert lies in how easily you can customize it! Try swapping raspberries for strawberries for a tart twist, or use mixed berries in summer. Need gluten-free? Almond meal makes a fabulous crust alternative. Craving convenience? Store-bought angel food cake crumbs work wonders for the topping.

For hot days, my no-bake version skips the oven – just chill the cheesecake layer and top with fresh berries. The results are just as dreamy!

Serving and Storing Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

For the perfect bite, serve this chilled – the flavors really pop when cold! I always add a few extra fresh berries on top to make it look extra special. If you somehow have leftovers (mine never last!), they’ll keep covered in the fridge for about 3 days. Want to save some for later? Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to a month – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note – these nutritional estimates for our strawberry shortcake cheesecake may vary based on your specific ingredients and brands used. Remember, the best desserts are enjoyed mindfully and shared with love!

Frequently Asked Questions

Share Your Creation

I’d love to see your strawberry shortcake cheesecake masterpieces! Snap a pic and share your creation in the comments below – nothing makes me happier than seeing your versions of this dessert. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it! For more sweet inspiration (I’m obsessed with cheesecake variations), check out my Pinterest account where I’m always pinning my latest kitchen adventures.

Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cheesecake

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This viral dessert combines creamy cheesecake with the delightful crunch of strawberry shortcake. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Sophia Collins
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box strawberry cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup strawberry jam
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
3. For the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, 1 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream until just combined. Pour filling over the cooled crust.
4. For the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine strawberry cake mix and ½ cup melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle half of the crumble mixture over the cheesecake filling.
5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
6. For the strawberry topping: In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries and strawberry jam. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until strawberries are softened and sauce thickens slightly. Let cool.
7. For the whipped cream: In a cold bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, spread the strawberry topping over it. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the strawberry topping.
9. Top with whipped cream before serving.
10. For a no-bake version, skip baking the cheesecake and chill for at least 4 hours.

Notes

• You can use store-bought strawberry shortcake cookies or golden Oreos for a quick crumble hack.
• This recipe can be easily doubled for a larger party.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Find more delicious recipes and inspiration on our Pinterest account.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 55g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 120mg