If you’ve ever wished you could take the nostalgia of classic strawberry shortcake and the creamy decadence of a cheesecake and merge them into one epic dessert, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the dream come true waiting on your plate. This show-stopping cake has everything: a buttery Golden Oreo crust, a tangy-smooth cheesecake center, sweet strawberry cake, and clouds of crunchy, strawberry-flecked crumble on top. Whether you’re planning a birthday, a brunch, or just a day that needs celebrating, this irresistible treat is sure to steal the spotlight and have everyone asking for seconds.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every incredible layer of this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake comes together with simple but purposeful ingredients. Each one plays a special role in creating the vibrant flavors, textures, and colors that make this cake such a standout. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters.

Golden Oreos (crushed): These cookies make up the sweet and slightly salty foundation for the crust, adding crunch and buttery vanilla flavor.
Unsalted butter (melted): Binding power! Melted butter holds the crust together and gives the crumb topping its signature texture.
Cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, cream cheese brings that iconic creamy tang and rich body.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cheesecake and crust layers, balancing out the tartness of the strawberries.
Eggs: Essential for structure, eggs help set the cheesecake into a silky, sliceable masterpiece.
Sour cream: Adds a gentle tanginess and keeps the cheesecake extra smooth and luscious.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings welcoming warmth to the cream cheese filling.
Strawberry cake mix + box ingredients: This shortcut ensures a fluffy, vibrant strawberry layer with all the nostalgic flavor you crave.
Strawberry gelatin powder: Mixed into the crumb topping, it delivers bold color and that unmistakable berry zing.
Whipped cream and fresh strawberries (optional): Perfect finishing touches for visual wow and a fresh, juicy bite.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and get your 9-inch springform pan ready with a greased base and a parchment paper circle for easy release. In a bowl, mix your crushed Golden Oreos with melted butter until every crumb is coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then let it cool completely before you add the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the crust is cooling, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s velvety-smooth and free of lumps. Add the sugar and mix until combined, then add eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated. Next, blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract. This results in a dreamy batter that’s thick and silky. Pour the cheesecake mixture over your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap the outside of the pan with foil to prevent water from seeping in, then set the pan inside a larger roasting dish filled with about an inch of hot water. This water bath method keeps your cheesecake incredibly creamy and helps avoid cracks. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, just until the center is nearly set—there should still be a slight wiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake slowly cool for an hour before transferring it to the counter. Once at room temperature, chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Step 4: Bake the Strawberry Cake Layer

Prepare your strawberry cake mix following the box instructions, which usually call for eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and bake as directed. Let the cake cool completely—chilling helps make assembly easy and ensures tidy layers in your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once both layers are chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Place your fluffy strawberry cake on a serving plate, then gently position the cheesecake layer on top. Patience is key here—if everything is cold, you’ll get picture-perfect layers that hold their shape beautifully.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Crumble Topping

In a bowl, combine more crushed Golden Oreos, vibrant strawberry gelatin powder, and melted butter. Mix until everything is evenly coated and crumbly. This mixture creates the signature sweet-strawberry crunch that finishes the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake with flair. Simply sprinkle (or press) the crumbs on top and along the sides, creating that iconic look and irresistible texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Chill

If you want to go all out, pipe on swirls of whipped cream and add plenty of fresh strawberry slices for a dazzling finish. Chill your masterpiece until you’re ready to serve—the longer it sits, the better the flavors meld.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Garnishes

The finishing touches truly make this dessert a feast for the eyes and the appetite. Top your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake with generous dollops of whipped cream, slices or halves of fresh strawberries, and an extra sprinkle of the crumb topping. These simple adornments turn every slice into a celebration.

Side Dishes

Since this dessert is delightfully rich, it pairs beautifully with light accompaniments. Consider serving with a crisp mixed fruit salad, a glass of bubbly rosé, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the cake’s creaminess and berry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try making mini versions in individual jars or ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also layer cubes of the finished cake in a trifle dish with extra cream and berries for a stunning, easy-to-serve centerpiece. However you serve it, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake will naturally steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your first (and maybe second!) helping, cover any remaining Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and fabulous in the fridge for up to 5 days, making those midnight snack runs pretty tempting.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, making it a smart make-ahead treat. To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then foil. Store the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready for a sweet trip down memory lane.

Reheating

While Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled for that signature texture, if you want to take the chill off, let the slice on the counter for 15–20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise the layers and make the cake lose its shape.

FAQs

Can I use homemade strawberry cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite scratch strawberry cake recipe, go ahead and use it instead of the mix. Just make sure it’s baked in a 9-inch round pan so it matches the cheesecake layer for easy stacking.

What’s the best way to keep the layers from sliding?

Make sure both the cheesecake and strawberry cake are thoroughly chilled before stacking. If you’re worried about shifting, you can spread a thin layer of whipped cream or frosting between the layers to act as “glue.”

Can I substitute different cookies for the Golden Oreo crust?

Certainly! Vanilla wafers or even graham crackers will also work for the crust and crumb topping. Golden Oreos provide that classic shortcake flavor, but feel free to experiment to suit your taste.

How do I get a perfectly clean cheesecake slice?

Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This little trick melts through the layers cleanly, giving you those striking, bakery-worthy slices every time.

Is it possible to make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free sandwich cookies for the crust and crumb, and use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. The result will be just as delicious and safe for gluten-free guests to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a dessert worth celebrating, whether you’re making it for a big occasion or just craving something truly special. Each bite brings together the whimsy of childhood favorites and the richness of a classic cheesecake. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if you start getting requests for repeat performances every year!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6+ hours (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert with this decadent Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Layers of creamy cheesecake, strawberry cake, and a crumbly topping come together for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

2 cups Golden Oreos (crushed)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the cheesecake layer:

3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the strawberry cake layer:

1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: usually eggs, oil, and water)

For the topping:

1 1/2 cups crushed Golden Oreos
3 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Whipped cream and fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Make the crust: In a bowl, mix crushed Golden Oreos and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Add sour cream and vanilla, and beat until smooth. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and place it in a larger baking dish filled with about 1 inch of hot water. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is nearly set. Turn off oven and let cheesecake sit in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly open. Remove and cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the strawberry cake: Prepare the cake mix according to package directions in a 9-inch round pan. Bake and cool completely.
Assemble the cake: Once both layers are chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Place the strawberry cake layer on a serving plate, then carefully place the cheesecake layer on top.
Make the crumb topping: Mix crushed Golden Oreos, strawberry gelatin powder, and melted butter until crumbly. Press or sprinkle the mixture over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries if desired. Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

For clean layers, chill each component thoroughly before stacking.
The crumb topping can also be made with freeze-dried strawberries for a more natural flavor and color.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American