Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake is a decadent layered dessert combining moist strawberry cake, a creamy cheesecake layer, fluffy whipped cream frosting, and a crunchy strawberry Oreo topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will impress any crowd.
Ingredients
Strawberry Cake Layers
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on box)
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 cup Golden Oreos (crushed)
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Optional Filling
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare Cheesecake Layer: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes or until the center is just set. Remove from oven, let cool completely, then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.
- Bake Strawberry Cake Layers: Follow the instructions on the strawberry cake mix box to bake two 8-inch round cake layers. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before assembly to prevent melting of the frosting.
- Make Whipped Cream Frosting: In a chilled bowl, beat together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy frosting perfect for layering and covering the cake.
- Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping: Using a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until crumbly but not powdery. Mix this crumb mixture with melted unsalted butter until evenly combined to create the crunchy topping.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one strawberry cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the top and, if desired, sprinkle diced fresh strawberries evenly. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top. Add more whipped cream and additional diced strawberries if using. Top with the second strawberry cake layer. Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Finally, press the strawberry crunch mixture onto the sides and top of the cake to create a beautiful and flavorful crust. Chill the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving to ensure clean slices.
Notes
- Make the cheesecake layer a day ahead to save time on assembly day.
- You can substitute the boxed strawberry cake mix with a homemade strawberry cake recipe if preferred for a more personalized touch.
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the whipped cream and cheesecake fresh.
- Ensure the cake layers and cheesecake are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Freeze-dried strawberries add a unique texture and flavor to the crunch topping, but can be substituted with crushed freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries if unavailable.