Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
A luscious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh macerated strawberries, and tender shortcake biscuits or sponge cake layers. Perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon and vanilla, this easy-to-make dessert is ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (toasting shortcake base)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake / Toasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian (can be made Gluten Free or Vegan with substitutions)
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Shortcake Base
- 2 cups shortcake biscuits or sponge cake, crumbled or sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Prepare the Shortcake Base: Crumble the shortcake biscuits or slice the sponge cake into small pieces. Lightly toast or warm them with melted butter to enhance flavor and create a slightly crispy texture that will hold well under the cheesecake layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup of the sugar and sour cream, beating until fully combined and creamy. Incorporate the heavy cream and vanilla extract, whipping gently to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Prepare the Strawberry Layer: Slice fresh strawberries and toss with lemon juice and remaining 1/4 cup sugar. Allow to macerate for 10-15 minutes until juicy and fragrant, deepening the flavor and softening the texture.
- Assemble the Layers: In a springform pan or trifle dish, evenly layer half of the shortcake base, followed by a generous layer of cheesecake filling. Add a layer of macerated strawberries, then repeat the sequence, finishing with a final strawberry layer on top.
- Chill and Set: Cover the assembled dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling period allows the cheesecake to firm up perfectly and the flavors to meld into a harmonious, luscious treat.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and avoid lumps.
- Fresh strawberries are key for natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Do not skip the chilling time — proper refrigeration is essential for texture.
- Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness.
- Feel free to adjust layering thickness to suit your texture and flavor preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, fresh strawberries dessert, layered cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe