Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake: A Luscious Layered Dessert for Every Occasion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake brings together two beloved desserts—classic strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake—into one showstopping creation. What makes this recipe especially delightful is its balance of textures: a smooth, velvety cheesecake base, sweet strawberry filling, and a soft, cake-like crumble that echoes the nostalgic flavours of traditional shortcake. Each slice feels indulgent yet refreshing, thanks to the bright fruitiness that cuts through the richness. I once prepared the cheesecake using a small splash of almond milk when thinning the batter, and the result was surprisingly silky and smooth without compromising stability. This dessert is stunning enough for celebrations yet simple enough for weekend baking. Its vibrant colours, rich layers, and familiar flavours make it a reliable favourite for gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you want a dessert that feels comforting, elegant, and irresistibly sweet.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese forms the luxurious base of the cheesecake, giving it its signature richness and velvety smooth texture. Softening it before mixing ensures the batter blends evenly without lumps.

Sugar

Sugar sweetens the cheesecake and also helps achieve a silky consistency. It balances the tartness of the cream cheese and complements the strawberries beautifully.

Eggs

Eggs act as the primary binding agent, setting the cheesecake while maintaining a soft, creamy interior. Adding them one at a time helps prevent overmixing.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla enhances the flavour of the cheesecake, adding warmth and a gentle sweetness that rounds out the dessert.

Strawberries

Fresh strawberries create the fruit layer and topping, delivering natural sweetness and vibrant colour. When cooked down or macerated, they form a luscious, jam-like layer.

Shortcake Crumble

A mixture of cake crumbs, butter, and sugar forms the iconic shortcake-style crumble. It adds texture and sweetness while reinforcing the classic flavour profile.

Butter

Butter binds the crumble and adds richness. When baked, it helps create a golden, tender texture reminiscent of traditional shortcake.

Flour or Cake Mix Crumbs

Used in the crumble, flour or cake mix crumbs provide structure. Cake mix brings added flavour, while flour offers more control over sweetness.

Milk

Milk may be used in the strawberry filling or crumble to achieve the right consistency. Almond milk can be substituted if a lighter option is preferred.

Directions

Begin by preparing the shortcake crumble. Combine the cake crumbs or flour with sugar and melted butter, mixing until the texture resembles coarse sand. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake lightly until just golden, then set aside to cool. For the cheesecake filling, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating excess air. Pour the batter into a prepared springform pan lined with parchment or lightly greased. Bake until the centre is just set, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually to prevent cracking. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry topping by cooking fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar until they break down into a thick, glossy mixture. Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the strawberries over the top. Press the shortcake crumble gently around the edges or over the entire surface, depending on your preferred style. Chill thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean, defined layers.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 10 to 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or celebrations. Preparation takes roughly 25 minutes, while the cheesecake requires 55 to 65 minutes of baking time. Cooling and chilling will take at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling provides the best texture.

Storage/reheating

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to two months—wrap tightly in plastic and freeze without the crumble topping, adding it after thawing for best texture. Cheesecake does not require reheating; serve chilled or at room temperature for a softer bite.

Variations and Customizations

Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake

Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the cheesecake and complement the strawberries.

White Chocolate Strawberry Version

Fold melted white chocolate into the batter for a richer, sweeter profile.

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Swirl strawberry puree directly into the batter before baking for a marbled appearance.

Mixed Berry Shortcake Cheesecake

Combine blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a more complex fruit layer.

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Style

Add a chocolate ganache layer under the strawberries for an elegant twist.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Use gluten-free cake crumbs or gluten-free flour for the shortcake crumble.

Almond Shortcake Crumble

Replace some of the flour with finely ground almonds for a deeper flavour.

No-Bake Version

Use a no-bake cheesecake base and refrigerate instead of baking for a quicker dessert.

Strawberry Cream Layer

Add a whipped cream and strawberry puree mixture between the cheesecake and crumble.

Brown Sugar Crumble

Replace white sugar with brown sugar for a caramel-like shortcake flavour.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw fully and cook them down for the topping.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing and allow it to cool gradually.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Is a water bath necessary?

It helps prevent cracking but is optional if you prefer a denser texture.

Can I replace cream cheese with mascarpone?

Yes, though it will create a softer, lighter cheesecake.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the perfect union of creamy, fruity, and crumbly elements. Its layered textures and vibrant flavours make it an unforgettable dessert suitable for celebrations or simple indulgence. With its flexibility and crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again—each slice as delightful and satisfying as the last.

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