Pin 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.
I have always enjoyed how the layers of this dessert balance each other perfectly, and it never fails to impress family and friends at gatherings.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare 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.
- Bake Crust:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make 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.
- Bake Cheesecake:
- 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.
- Prepare 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). 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.
- Make 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.
- Prepare 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.
- Assemble and Chill:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer. Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Pin Making this dessert together has become a special tradition in my family, with everyone eager to help layer and decorate.
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 if using store-bought cookies or Jell-O for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 30g, Carbohydrates 40g, Protein 6g
Pin This dessert always brings smiles to the table and is perfect for celebrations or whenever you crave something sweet and indulgent.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake layer?
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and beat it until smooth and fluffy to avoid lumps.
- → What is the best way to prevent the strawberry layer from melting into the cheesecake?
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely and chill before adding the strawberry layer to maintain distinct layers.
- → Can I substitute the crust ingredients?
Yes, graham cracker crumbs can replace Golden Oreos for a less sweet base without affecting texture much.
- → How long should the dessert be chilled before serving?
Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure the layers set firmly and flavors blend well.
- → What alternatives can be used for the whipped cream topping?
Heavy cream whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla extract works best, but stabilized whipped cream or Cool Whip can be used as alternatives.