Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake – The Ultimate Dessert Mashup

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake – The Ultimate Dessert Mashup

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that tastes like a childhood dream, this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is it. With layers of creamy vanilla cheesecake sandwiched between soft strawberry cake and coated in nostalgic pink crumble, it’s the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and color. Every bite brings together tender cake, rich cheesecake, and that iconic strawberry crunch topping that takes us back to ice cream truck memories.

At Layers of Calm, we love creating desserts that deliver joy with every slice—and this one is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet moment to celebrate something small.

Ingredients:

Strawberry Cake Layer:

• 2 boxed strawberry cake mixes (plus ingredients listed on the box—usually eggs, oil, and water)

Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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• 2 tablespoons flour

• 2 large eggs

Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Topping:

• 30 vanilla sandwich cookies (like Golden Oreos), crushed

• 3 oz strawberry Jell-O powder

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• 4 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions:

1. Bake the Cakes:
   Prepare and bake the two strawberry cakes according to the package instructions using two 8-inch round pans. Allow to cool completely, then level the tops with a knife to create even layers.

2. Make the Cheesecake:
   Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, and flour. Mix until combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, just until incorporated.

   Pour into a greased or lined 8-inch round cake pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

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3. Prepare the Crunch Topping:
   Crush the vanilla cookies in a food processor or with a rolling pin. In a bowl, mix the crumbs with the strawberry Jell-O powder and melted butter until coated and crumbly. Toast lightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes for a crunchier texture, if desired. Let cool.

4. Assemble the Cake:
   Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Add the chilled cheesecake layer on top. Place the second strawberry cake layer over the cheesecake.

5. Frost and Decorate:
   Spread a light layer of whipped topping or frosting around the entire cake (this helps the crumble stick). Press the strawberry crunch mixture all over the sides and top of the cake.

6. Chill and Serve:
   Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help it set beautifully.

Final Note:

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that steals the show—not just for how it looks, but for how indulgent and unforgettable it tastes. With the creamy center and the sweet, crumbly coating, every slice is a moment of pure dessert bliss.

For more feel-good treats and layered comfort, follow Layers of Calm—where every recipe is built to bring sweetness and serenity to your day.