Description
Discover the perfect balance of creamy richness and fresh fruity sweetness with this easy Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake recipe. Combining a smooth, tangy cheesecake filling with juicy strawberries and a buttery shortcake crust, this dessert is ideal for any occasion — from casual weeknights to elegant celebrations. Simple to prepare and visually stunning, it offers a nostalgic twist on two classic favorites in one luscious treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Base
- 2 cups shortcake or biscuit crumbs (or gluten-free biscuits/almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the shortcake or biscuit crumbs and combine with melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press firmly into the base of a springform pan to form a sturdy crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined to form the cheesecake batter.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: Slice the fresh strawberries and toss them with sugar and lemon juice. Set aside to macerate and develop sweetness.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Evenly drizzle half of the macerated strawberries on top. Repeat with remaining batter and strawberries. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles, approximately 50-60 minutes.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and texture set. Slice and enjoy.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating excess air which may cause cracks.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the springform pan and placing it in a pan filled with hot water to prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
- Fresh strawberries are recommended for best flavor and appearance.
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for optimal texture and flavor development.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of recipe)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg