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 brings together two of my favorite treats, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures that always impresses guests.
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 My family has made this cheesecake a holiday staple, enjoying it together while sharing stories and laughter.
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 and flavors (Jell-O). Verify labels for potential allergens when using store-bought items.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 30g, Carbohydrates 40g, Protein 6g
Save This strawberry shortcake cheesecake combines texture and flavor perfectly for any occasion.
Recipe Help
- → What type of crust works best for this dessert?
A crust made from graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Oreos mixed with melted butter provides a firm and flavorful base.
- → How long should the cheesecake be chilled?
Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow it to fully set and enhance flavor and texture.
- → Can I use fresh strawberries in the topping?
Yes, chopped fresh strawberries are folded into the strawberry gelatin layer, adding natural sweetness and texture.
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake layer?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat it well with sugar before adding other ingredients to avoid lumps.
- → Is there a substitute for the strawberry gelatin powder?
Strawberry gelatin powder provides flavor and structure, but fresh strawberries with a touch of fruit pectin can be used for a natural alternative.