Save A luscious dessert that marries creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake, topped with a vibrant strawberry layer and a crunchy cookie crumble.
I have always enjoyed combining classic desserts, and this strawberry shortcake cheesecake quickly became a favorite at family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or Golden Oreos, crushed ½ cup unsalted butter, melted 2 tbsp sugar
- Cheesecake Layer: 24 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 1 cup sour cream 3 large eggs, room temperature 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Strawberry Layer: 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O 1 cup boiling water ½ cup cold water 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or whipped cream) 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- Whipped Cream Topping: 2 cups heavy cream ¼ cup powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Shortcake Crumble: 20 Golden Oreos or vanilla cookies, crushed 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O powder (dry)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare Crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Golden Oreos), sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake Crust:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just incorporated.
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 45 50 minutes, or until the center is just slightly wobbly. Remove from oven and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Prepare Strawberry Layer:
- In a bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Allow to cool and chill until the mixture is slightly thickened but not fully set (about 30 45 minutes).
- Fold Strawberry Mixture:
- Gently fold in whipped topping and chopped strawberries. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 2 3 hours until the layer is firm.
- Make Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Prepare Shortcake Crumble:
- In a bowl, combine crushed cookies with melted butter and dry strawberry Jell-O powder. Mix well until crumbs are evenly coated and vibrant in color.
- Apply Crumble:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save This dessert always brings smiles at family celebrations and creates lasting memories around the table.
Required Tools
9-inch springform pan Electric mixer or stand mixer Mixing bowls Rubber spatula Measuring cups and spoons Offset spatula (optional, for smooth layers)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, whipped cream, butter), Eggs, Wheat Gluten (cookies crackers), Soy (may be present in cookies), Artificial colors flavors (Jell-O). Verify labels for potential allergens if using store-bought ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 450 Total Fat 30g Carbohydrates 40g Protein 6g
Save Enjoy this decadent dessert chilled, and savor each layer of strawberry goodness.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I ensure a smooth cheesecake layer?
Make sure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Beat until smooth and fluffy to avoid lumps in the batter.
- → Can I substitute cookies in the crust?
Yes, graham cracker crumbs or Golden Oreos both work well. Using graham crackers will create a less sweet crust.
- → How long should I chill the dessert?
Chill the cheesecake layer for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set properly. The strawberry layer needs 2–3 hours to firm up.
- → How is the strawberry layer prepared?
Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then add cold water and chill until thickened. Fold in whipped topping and fresh strawberries before spreading.
- → What tools help with assembly?
A 9-inch springform pan is essential, plus mixers for smooth blending and spatulas for even layering.
- → Can the shortcake crumble be made ahead?
Yes, prepare the crumble by mixing crushed cookies, melted butter, and dry gelatin powder, then store in an airtight container until use.