Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe – Layers of Sweet Perfection🍓

This Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake is a dessert lover’s dream! Layers of creamy cheesecake, moist strawberry cake, and a nostalgic strawberry crunch topping come together to create the perfect treat inspired by shortcake ice cream bars. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever you need a sweet indulgence!

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Cake Layers:

• 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed golden Oreos
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp strawberry extract (optional)
• Pink food coloring (optional)

For Decoration:

• Fresh strawberries (sliced or whole)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
• Prepare the strawberry cake batter according to the package instructions, adding 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
• Divide batter between pans and bake as directed. Cool completely.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

• Lower oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8-inch springform pan.
• Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing well.
• Pour batter into the pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until edges are set. Cool and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• Pulse golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until crumbly.
• Mix in melted butter until coated.

4. Make the Frosting:

• Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract (if using).
• Mix in pink food coloring for a strawberry hue.

5. Assemble the Cake:

• Place one strawberry cake layer on a plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top.
• Add the cheesecake layer and frost lightly.
• Place the second strawberry cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.

6. Add Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• Press the strawberry crunch mixture onto the sides and top for an even coating.

7. Decorate and Serve:

• Pipe frosting swirls and add fresh strawberries on top. Slice and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Shortcuts: Use a pre-made cheesecake to save time.
• Enhancements: Drizzle with white chocolate for extra flair.

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is as stunning as it is delicious. Try it for your next gathering, and watch it become everyone’s favorite! 🍓✨

Optimize your dessert game with this must-try recipe today!