Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe | Easy Dessert

As the sun shines through the kitchen, it lights up the red berries on the counter. This isn’t just any cheesecake. It’s a mix of strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake. It has a buttery cake base, a smooth cheesecake layer, and fresh strawberry flavor.

This dessert is the perfect treat for summer. It will make your taste buds happy.

Key Takeaways

• Combining the beloved flavors of strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake
• Features a buttery cake base, cheesecake layer, and strawberry filling with whipped cream
• Perfect for summer gatherings and special occasions
• Requires both baking and no-bake components for a unique texture
• Serves 9 delicious slices of this indulgent dessert

Introduction to the Ultimate Summer Dessert

Try our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake for a summer treat like no other. It’s a mix of classic strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake. The dessert has a buttery cake base and a creamy fruit cheesecake layer. It’s filled with the fresh taste of strawberry baking.

What Makes This Cheesecake Special

This cheesecake is special because of its mix of textures and tastes. The butter cake and baked cheesecake layers work together beautifully. Fresh strawberries add a burst of summer flavor, making it a truly indulgent treat.

Origins of Strawberry Shortcake Fusion

This dessert combines the classic American Strawberry Shortcake with the timeless cheesecake. It brings back memories of childhood treats like Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bars. But it’s presented in a new, sophisticated way.

“This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is the perfect marriage of summer’s most iconic flavors, delivering a truly indulgent and memorable dessert experience.”

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

To make the delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, you need top-notch ingredients and the right tools. The key parts of this recipe are:

• 24 ounces (680.39 g) of cream cheese
• 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 4 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup (59.5 g) of heavy cream
• 32 ounces (907.19 g) of fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup (85 g) of strawberry jam
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) of hot water

You’ll also need some important equipment to make this recipe:

1. Two 9-inch springform pans
2. An electric mixer for whipping ingredients
3. Parchment paper to line the pans
4. Aluminum foil for even baking

Using the best ingredients, like brick-style cream cheese and fresh strawberries, will make your cheesecake taste amazing. You can also add white chocolate or freeze-dried strawberries for a special touch.

Making the Perfect Buttery Cake Base

Creating the perfect cake base is key for your strawberry shortcake cheesecake. To get a light and fluffy texture, mastering mixing techniques is essential. Make sure you have the right mix of ingredients, including butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cake flour, and baking powder.

Tips for a Light and Fluffy Texture

The secret to a soft, airy cake is in the creaming method. Begin by beating the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This adds air to the batter, making the cake tender. Remember to scrape down the bowl sides often for even mixing.

Proper Mixing Techniques

• Beat the butter and sugar with a stand mixer or hand mixer until they become light and fluffy.
• Slowly incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring to mix thoroughly after each addition.
• Sift the cake flour and baking powder together before gently folding them into the batter.
• Be careful not to overmix, as it may result in a dense and tough texture.

Baking Temperature and Time

For the perfect bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes. Use the toothpick test to check if the cake is fully cooked. If the toothpick comes out clean, it’s ready. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

By following these tips, you’ll have a great cake base for your strawberry shortcake cheesecake. This will impress your guests with a delicious summer dessert!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Layer Instructions

Making the perfect strawberry shortcake cheesecake is all about balance. The creamy cheesecake layer is the heart of this dessert. You’ll need cream cheese (8 oz), a quarter cup of sugar, a teaspoon of vanilla, and a cup of heavy whipping cream.

Start by beating the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Add the sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Then, gently fold in the whipping cream until it’s silky.

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
2. Pour the cheesecake batter into a prepared springform pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
3. Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for 60-70 minutes, being careful not to open the oven door during the first hour of baking.
4. The cheesecake is ready when the center is slightly wobbly, and the surface has lost its shiny appearance.
5. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

This creamy, baked cheesecake layer is the base for the strawberry shortcake fusion. It brings together cream cheese recipes and fresh summer flavors.

“The key to making a flawless cheesecake is practicing patience and focusing on every detail throughout the baking process..”

Creating the Strawberry Filling

Making the perfect strawberry filling is key to a great Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries. The goal is to get a filling that matches the cheesecake and cake layers well.

Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberry Options

Fresh and frozen strawberries both work well in this recipe. Fresh strawberries give a juicy flavor. Frozen strawberries are convenient and available all year. You might need to add more sugar to frozen strawberries since they’re less sweet.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The filling should be spreadable but hold its shape when cooled. Cook the strawberries with sugar, then thicken with cornstarch. Adding gelatin helps it stay stable. This makes a filling that blends well with the other dessert layers.

Adding a bit of lemon juice can balance the sweetness. Adjust the sugar to your liking for the best taste.

“The secret to a remarkable strawberry filling lies in the perfect balance of fresh, juicy berries and just the right amount of sweetness.”

1. In a saucepan, mix 8 medium to large fresh strawberries (about 200 grams) with 80-120 grams of confectioners’ sugar, adjusting to taste.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring now and then, until the strawberries release their juice and the sugar dissolves, about 10 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry.
4. Pour the slurry into the saucepan, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin powder. Mix well.
6. Let the filling cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

This strawberry filling is perfect for layering with your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Adjust the sugar and lemon juice to your liking for a delicious dessert.

Whipped Cream Topping and Decoration

Elevate your strawberry desserts with a luscious whipped cream topping. It complements the tangy and sweet flavors of this summer treats delight. The secret to a perfect whipped cream lies in the simple yet precise technique.

Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cream achieve maximum volume and a sturdy, billowy texture. Pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and beat on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the cream holds firm, stiff peaks.

Using a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip, pipe decorative swirls or dollops of the whipped cream around the edges of the chilled strawberry shortcake cheesecake. For an extra pop of flavor and color, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry powder.

Fresh, juicy strawberries make a beautiful and refreshing garnish. Slice them in half and arrange them around the perimeter of the cake or scatter them over the top. Chill the finished cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the whipped cream to set and maintain its shape.

The key to a successful whipped cream topping is attention to detail and a light hand. Overwhipping can lead to a grainy, curdled texture, so keep a close eye on the consistency as you beat.

With the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tart flavors, your strawberry shortcake cheesecake is now ready to delight your guests. Enjoy this decadent summer treat!

Assembly and Layering Techniques

Making the perfect strawberry shortcake cheesecake is all about the assembly. Start with a buttery cake base at the bottom of a springform pan. Then, add a creamy cheesecake layer, followed by fresh strawberry filling. Keep alternating these layers until you have a tall dessert.

Professional Presentation Tips

For a stunning presentation, chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before adding whipped cream. This step helps the layers set and prevents spills. When you’re ready to serve, use a hot knife to slice it. This ensures clean edges. Top it with fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, or strawberry sauce for a professional touch.

Common Assembly Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overfill the layers. Too much filling can cause spills and mess.
• Chill the assembled cheesecake before adding whipped cream. This keeps it stable and cohesive.
• Wait until the cheesecake is completely set before slicing. This way, the layers will stay in place.

By following these tips, you can make a strawberry shortcake cheesecake that’s both delicious and visually appealing. It will look like it was made by a pro.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is perfect for summer gatherings. You can make the shortbread crust, strawberry filling, and cheesecake layers ahead of time. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free assembly when it’s time to serve.

For the best taste, keep the assembled cheesecake in the fridge for 1-2 days. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then let it defrost in the fridge overnight before serving.

This cheesecake is great for any summer event. It’s perfect for a backyard barbecue, pool party, or picnic. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture will impress everyone and satisfy their sweet tooth.