If you love the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake and the creamy richness of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to adore this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe. Imagine biting into moist vanilla cake layers layered with a luscious strawberry-studded cheesecake, all wrapped up in a dreamy strawberry whipped frosting. This cake not only looks stunning but also offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that feel like a celebration in every forkful. It’s perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any day that needs a little extra sweetness and love.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the cake’s tender crumb, creating that rich cheesecake layer, or giving the frosting its irresistible strawberry punch. These simple components come together beautifully, making the process straightforward and the results spectacular.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the vanilla cake layers, providing structure and softness.
Baking powder: Essential for helping the cake rise to a light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet flavors in the cake and cheesecake.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake layers; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and cheesecake perfectly without overpowering.
Large eggs: Bind ingredients and provide lift to the cake and creaminess to the cheesecake.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor throughout the layers.
Whole milk: Moistens the cake, giving it that tender crumb.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, rich and creamy for that luscious texture.
Sour cream: Gives the cheesecake a slight tang and keeps it smooth.
Fresh strawberries: Finely chopped for a burst of fruity flavor inside the cheesecake layer.
Heavy whipping cream: The base of the strawberry whipped frosting, light and airy.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without any graininess.
Freeze-dried strawberries: Powdered to infuse the whipped frosting with an intense strawberry flavor and pretty pink color.
Fresh strawberries and shortbread cookie crumbs (optional): Perfect for garnish, adding crunch and freshness.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until silky smooth, then add eggs one at a time for a sturdy yet tender cheesecake base. Incorporate sour cream and vanilla extract for that classic tang and aroma, folding in finely chopped strawberries to add bursts of fruity freshness in every bite. Pour this luscious mixture into the pan and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes until just set—don’t overbake, or the texture will become dense. After baking, let it cool completely, then chill it in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight for the best firmness and flavor development.

Step 2: Bake the Vanilla Cake Layers

While your cheesecake chills, increase the oven temperature to 350°F and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper for easy removal. Combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in one bowl and set aside. In another, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, which creates that perfect tender crumb. Add eggs one at a time for structure and moisture, then mix in vanilla extract for warmth. Alternate adding the flour mixture with whole milk, starting and ending with flour to keep the batter balanced and smooth. Divide your batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely before assembly to prevent melting the cheesecake or frosting.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Whipped Frosting

To create that dreamy pink frosting, whip heavy cream into soft peaks first. This ensures it starts forming a stable base. Then, add powdered sugar for sweetness, vanilla for flavor depth, and the powdered freeze-dried strawberries. The freeze-dried strawberry powder is a secret weapon here—it packs an intense strawberry flavor and lends a pale pink tint that is both visually stunning and delicious. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, perfect for spreading and piping.

Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Place one vanilla cake layer on your serving plate to form the cake’s base. Gently layer the chilled strawberry cheesecake on top, making sure it’s firm enough to hold its shape. Add the second vanilla cake layer over the cheesecake to complete the triple-layered structure. Now comes the fun part—spread the strawberry whipped frosting evenly over the entire cake, softening edges and creating smooth swirls. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh strawberries and sprinkle shortbread cookie crumbs around the edges to add texture and a sweet buttery crunch. Chill the cake until you’re ready to serve to allow all the flavors to meld.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are a classic and gorgeous garnish that add brightness and freshness to every slice. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy cheesecake and the fluffy cake layers. Adding shortbread cookie crumbs on top introduces a lovely crunch contrast, echoing the cake’s shortcake inspiration. If you want to get extra fancy, consider mint leaves or even edible flowers to elevate the presentation.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own but can be wonderfully complemented with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A light fruit salad with mint can also balance the richness of the cake recipes beautifully. For adults, a glass of sparkling rosé or a sweet dessert wine pairs deliciously to round out the dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking for some creative serving ideas? Try cutting the cake into small individual parfaits by layering cake cubes, cheesecake chunks, and frosting in clear glasses topped with fresh strawberries and crumbs. For a casual gathering, serve cake slices on pastel-colored plates with feminine forks for a charming vibe. You can even use the frosting as a dip for strawberry halves and shortbread cookies on the side for a “deconstructed” dessert option that’s super fun and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe keeps fabulously in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. The layered flavors actually deepen after sitting, so leftovers can be just as delightful as fresh slices.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture—avoid microwaving frozen cake as it can cause the frosting to separate and the texture to become soggy.

Reheating

This type of cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer your cake softer, let a slice sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving to let the frosting and layers soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the cheesecake layer?

Fresh strawberries are preferred for texture and flavor, but if frozen strawberries are your only option, thaw and drain them well before chopping to avoid extra moisture that can affect the cheesecake’s consistency.

Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake layer before assembly?

Yes, chilling helps the cheesecake set properly so it layers neatly without oozing or mixing into the cake layers, ensuring a clean, beautiful slice every time.

Can I make the strawberry whipped frosting vegan?

Traditional whipped cream is dairy-based, but you can substitute a coconut cream whipping version and powdered sugar to create a similar texture and flavor, though it won’t have quite the same strawberry intensity without the freeze-dried strawberries.

How do I prevent the cake layers from drying out?

Brushing the cake layers with a little strawberry syrup or simple syrup before stacking adds moisture and intensifies the strawberry flavor while keeping each bite tender and moist.

Can I prepare the entire cake a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just assemble the cake and store it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the best elements of two beloved desserts into one show-stopping treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in something extraordinary, this cake is sure to impress and delight. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and happily sharing it with everyone you love.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 277 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours plus chilling time
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake combines the classic flavors of vanilla cake, creamy strawberry cheesecake, and fluffy strawberry whipped frosting into one decadent layered dessert. It’s perfect for celebrations and offers a delightful blend of textures and fresh strawberry flavor with an elegant presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Vanilla Cake Layers:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

Strawberry Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup finely chopped strawberries

Strawberry Whipped Frosting:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, blended into powder

Optional Topping:

Fresh strawberries
Shortbread cookie crumbs

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Instructions

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and finely chopped strawberries until evenly combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven, let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and firm up.
Bake the Vanilla Cake Layers: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one, then incorporate the vanilla extract. Alternately add the flour mixture and whole milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Strawberry Whipped Frosting: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and freeze-dried strawberry powder while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Keep chilled until assembly.
Assemble the Cake: Place one vanilla cake layer on your serving plate. Carefully remove the chilled cheesecake layer from its pan and place it on top of the first cake layer. Add the second vanilla cake layer on top of the cheesecake layer to form three distinct layers. Generously frost the entire cake with the strawberry whipped frosting, smoothing it evenly. If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries and sprinkle shortbread cookie crumbs on top for added texture and decoration. Chill the assembled cake until ready to serve for best flavor and consistency.

Notes

You can prepare all layers a day in advance to simplify assembly on the day of serving.
Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers before stacking to create a smooth, even cake.
For enhanced strawberry flavor, brush the cake layers with strawberry syrup before assembling.
Be sure to chill the cheesecake layer thoroughly to ensure it holds its shape when assembled.
Freeze-dried strawberry powder intensifies strawberry flavor without adding moisture to the frosting.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American