Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Hey there, fellow dessert enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you crave the sweetness of a delicious treat amidst your busy days, and that’s where my Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake comes in. It’s a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, merging creamy cheesecake with fluffy sponge cake and a crunchy Oreo crumble. This recipe not only dazzles with its presentation but also serves as a quick solution to satisfy your sweet tooth or impress loved ones at a gathering. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a game-changer for dessert lovers! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for those hectic days when time isn’t on your side. The flavors dance on your palate, harmonizing the sweetness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Plus, it looks stunning on any table, making it a showstopper at potlucks and family gatherings. Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious?
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Let’s gather the star players that will make our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake truly delightful. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Sponge Cake: The light and fluffy base adds that classic touch. It’s what makes every bite feel like a hug!
- Strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries are key. They not only lend sweetness but also a pop of color. Tiny chopped bits mix perfectly throughout.
- Whole Milk: This adds moisture to our sponge cake, ensuring it stays soft and tender.
- Salt, Baking Powder, and All-Purpose Flour: These trio staples work together to create the sponge cake’s structure. A pinch of salt enhances flavor, while baking powder helps it rise.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of this gives a warm, comforting flavor to both the cake and the filling!
- White Sugar: Sweetness is a must. It balances the flavors beautifully, making everything melt in your mouth!
- Eggs: These are vital for binding and lightness in the sponge cake. They help create that airy texture we crave.
- Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese forms the creamy goodness in this part of the dessert. It’s rich and decadent!
- Powdered Sugar: This helps sweeten our cheesecake filling without graininess. It blends right in, giving a silky finish.
- Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection, it lightens up the creamy filling, making it luscious and fluffy.
- Golden Oreo Cookies: These crunchy bits add a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake, while also giving a unique flavor twist!
- Unsalted Butter: Just a bit melts into the crumble to hold everything together. You could also swap this for coconut oil for a dairy-free version!
- Strawberry Gelatin Mix: This enhances the strawberry flavor and helps with the texture of our crumble. It’s a clever trick for a fruity hint.
- Toppings: Don’t forget the whipped cream and extra fresh strawberries for that eye-catching finish! A drizzle of strawberry sauce can take it over the top.
Remember, you can find the exact quantities for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and tackle this delicious adventure!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Now comes the exciting part! Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake together. I promise it’s easier than you might think! Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to wow your family and friends.
Prepare Your Sponge Cake
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 pan and line it with parchment paper—this will make it easier to remove the cake later.
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and eggs using a hand mixer, until it’s super fluffy and light. You’re looking for that airy texture, so don’t rush this part!
Next, sift in the salt, baking powder, and flour gently. Stir just until no dry bits remain. It’s okay if the batter is lumpy; we want to keep it light!
Now, mix in the milk and add the tiny strawberry pieces. This is where the flavor starts to shine!
Pour the batter into your lined pan and spread it out evenly. Bake it in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s done if it springs back when touched.
After baking, take it out and, while it’s still warm, roll it up carefully with the parchment paper. Start at one end and roll it like a log. This helps the cake maintain its shape. Let it cool completely in this rolled position.
Create the Cheesecake Filling
While the cake cools, let’s whip up that creamy cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is super creamy and smooth.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until thick and it holds peaks. This step is key for that light and fluffy filling we love!
Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. This is such a joyful moment, watching it transform into a luscious filling.
Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Carefully unroll your cooled sponge cake. Time to slather that delightful cheesecake filling all over! Spread it out evenly, reaching all corners.
Now, gently roll the cake back up, keeping it tight but not squishing the filling out. Wrap your lovely cake log in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld and set!
While it chills, prepare the crumble. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreo cookies, strawberry gelatin mix, and melted butter. Mix until you get chunky, crumbly goodness.
Chill and Finalize the Dessert
Once your cake is nicely chilled, take it out of the fridge. Spread a thin layer of cheesecake filling over the outside. This will help the crumble stick!
Now, sprinkle and press the crumble onto the filling until it’s covered well. The crunchy texture and sweet strawberries will elevate your cheesecake to new heights.
Finally, feel free to decorate with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce to finish it off. Slice into beautiful pieces and dig in!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your sponge cake is completely cool before rolling to prevent cracks.
- For maximum flavor, opt for the freshest strawberries you can find.
- Chilling your cheesecake roll for longer enhances firmness and rich flavors.
- Don’t skip the whipped cream—it’s essential for that dreamy texture.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slices; it makes a world of difference!
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 pan: This holds your sponge cake beautifully. If you don’t have one, a similar-sized baking dish will do.
- Parchment paper: Essential for easy cake removal. You can also use non-stick spray.
- Hand mixer: Perfect for beating eggs and cream cheese. A whisk will work, but it takes more effort!
- Mixing bowls: A few different sizes will make your life easier for combining the ingredients.
- Plastic wrap: Vital for chilling your cake roll. If you’re out, aluminum foil can serve as a backup!
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious version that everyone can enjoy!
- Fruit Alternatives: Swap strawberries for seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches. Each fruit brings its own delightful twist!
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream for a creamy texture without the dairy!
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in cocoa powder to the sponge cake or use chocolate sandwich cookies instead of Oreos for a rich flavor.
- Mini Versions: Create individual servings by baking in muffin tins. These make perfect handheld treats for parties!
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Pair your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Drinks: Serve with sweet iced tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the cheesecake’s richness.
- Presentation: Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and a delightful aroma.
- Occasions: This cheesecake is perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just a sweet family dinner!
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Can I make the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. The flavors have a chance to deepen, making it even more delicious.
How can I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure not to leave it out at room temperature for too long!
Can I substitute the Golden Oreos in the crumble?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of Golden Oreos, feel free to use any flavor of Oreos. Chocolate Oreo crumble can be a decadent twist on this delightful dessert.
Is this cheesecake suitable for special diets?
<pYes, it can be modified to suit various diets. For gluten-free options, simply use a gluten-free flour alternative for the sponge cake and ensure your cookies are certified gluten-free!
What can I serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?
Consider pairing your cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit on the side. A scoop of vanilla ice cream always complements the flavors beautifully!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake brings a little slice of joy to any occasion. The process is surprisingly simple, yet it feels like you’re crafting something extraordinary. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of flavors—creamy, sweet, and a touch of crunch that dances on your palate. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a celebration, or just because you deserve a treat, this dessert will undoubtedly impress and delight. Trust me, it’s moments like these, spent in the kitchen and shared with loved ones, that weave the sweetest memories. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 42 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on traditional strawberry shortcake, this cheesecake combines the fluffy sponge cake with creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy Oreo crumble, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Ingredients
- Sponge Cake
- 1/2 cup strawberries, chopped tiny
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Cheesecake Filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- Strawberry Shortcake Crumble
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin mix
- 1 cup golden Oreo cookies, crushed
- Topping
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries, cut up
- A bit of strawberry sauce to pour on
Instructions
- Turn your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover a 9×13 pan with some parchment.
- In a big bowl, beat sugar and eggs with a hand mixer till really fluffy and light. Drop in the vanilla.
- Sift in the salt, baking powder, and flour, gently stirring till there’s no dry stuff left.
- Mix in the milk and finally add those tiny strawberry bits.
- Pour out the batter onto your lined pan and smooth it. Pop it in for 10–12 minutes. Give it a poke—it should spring back.
- While it’s still warm, roll up the cake with the parchment. Just start at one end and make a log. Let it sit in that shape and cool all the way, so it won’t crack.
- Beat up cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla so it’s super creamy and smooth.
- Whip heavy cream in its own bowl until it gets thick and forms peaks.
- Fold that whipped cream into the cheesy mix so it’s all one fluffy filling.
- Uncurl your cake carefully. Slather cheesecake filling everywhere.
- Gently roll it back up, don’t mash it. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for 2 hours or longer, so it really sets.
- Stir together the crushed golden Oreos, the gelatin powder, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix just until you get chunky crumbs.
- Spread a thin layer of cheesecake filling all over the outside of your cake roll.
- Heap the crumble on so it sticks everywhere.
- Decorate with whipped cream, strawberry slices, and drizzle some sauce on top.
- Slice and dig in.
Notes
- Ensure the sponge cake is fully cooled before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Chilling the cheesecake roll for longer increases the firmness and flavors.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
