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.
This dessert reminds me of summer afternoons shared with family, savoring every bite of this delicious treat.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Step 2:
- Prepare the 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.
- Step 3:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Step 4:
- Make the 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.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Prepare the 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).
- Step 7:
- 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.
- Step 8:
- Make the 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.
- Step 9:
- Prepare the 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.
- Step 10:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Step 11:
- Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save Sharing this cake with loved ones always brings joy and special memories to our family gatherings.
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) If using store-bought cookies or Jell-O, verify labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 Total Fat: 30g Carbohydrates: 40g Protein: 6g
Save Enjoy this delightful strawberry shortcake cheesecake as a perfect ending to any meal.
Common Questions
- → What crust options can I use for this dessert?
You can use graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Oreos mixed with melted butter and sugar for a buttery, flavorful base.
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake layer?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and beat until smooth and fluffy before adding other ingredients.
- → When should the dessert be chilled?
After baking, chill the cheesecake layer for at least 4 hours to set properly before adding the strawberry and whipped cream layers.
- → What is the purpose of the strawberry gelatin layer?
The strawberry gelatin layer adds vibrant color and fresh berry flavor, folding in whipped topping and chopped strawberries for texture.
- → How is the shortcake crumble prepared?
Crushed cookies mixed with melted butter and dry strawberry gelatin powder create a colorful, crunchy topping to finish the dessert.
- → Can I substitute fresh strawberries?
Fresh strawberries add brightness and natural sweetness, and can be layered between cheesecake and gelatin for extra flavor.