why make this recipe
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a delicious dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the lightness of a strawberry shortcake and the richness of a cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. With its creamy layers and fresh strawberry topping, it is sure to impress everyone at the table.
how to make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese
- 2 packages graham crackers (about 18-20 full crackers)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 8 oz. tub cool whip
- 1 cup white chips
- 1/2 cup chopped strawberries
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix
- Oil, eggs, water (needed to prepare cake mix)
- 2 8-ounce packages of cream cheese (softened)
- 8 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 2 T vanilla
- 1 package 10.6 oz white wafer cookies (strawberry or vanilla in flavor)
- Red food coloring
- Reserved cake tops crumbled
Directions:
- For the cheesecake crust, crush the graham crackers and combine them with melted butter. Press the mixture into a lined springform pan and refrigerate.
- For the filling, beat the cream cheese with the cool whip until creamy. Melt the white chips and mix them with the cream cheese mixture. Pour this mixture over the crust and then top it with chopped strawberries. Refrigerate to set.
- Prepare the strawberry cake as per package instructions, bake, and let it cool. Trim the tops for crumbling later.
- For the cream cheese buttercream frosting, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Optionally, color some frosting pink with red food coloring.
- Crumble the wafer cookies and reserved cake tops, mixing red food coloring into some of the cake crumbles.
- To assemble, frost the first cake layer, place the cheesecake on top, add the second cake layer, and frost with the colored frosting. Press in the crumbles and use the reserved frosting for decoration. Place a strawberry in each swirl before serving. Keep refrigerated.
how to serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake chilled. You can cut it into slices and serve on dessert plates. For extra flair, garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or whipped cream.
how to store Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to five days.
tips to make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, use fresh strawberries in the filling and topping.
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency in the filling.
- If you want a stronger color for the frosting, add more red food coloring gradually until you reach your desired shade.
variation
You can switch up the flavors by using different cake mixes, such as vanilla or lemon, and matching the fruit toppings accordingly. Try adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry cheesecake.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! You can use other types of cookies like Oreo or vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly and it can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Ingredients
Method
- Crush the graham crackers and mix them with melted butter.
- Press the mixture into a lined springform pan and refrigerate.
- Beat the cream cheese with the cool whip until creamy.
- Melt the white chips and mix them into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour this mixture over the crust and top with chopped strawberries.
- Refrigerate to set.
- Prepare the strawberry cake according to package instructions and let it cool.
- Trim the tops for crumbling later.
- Combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla.
- Beat until smooth and optionally add red food coloring.
- Frost the first cake layer, place the cheesecake on top, then add the second cake layer.
- Frost with the colored frosting and press in the crumbles.
- Use reserved frosting for decoration and place a strawberry in each swirl before serving.