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
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
