Ah, strawberry shortcake cheesecake! Just saying those words makes my taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine a dessert where the creamy richness of cheesecake meets the light, fluffy texture of strawberry shortcake, topped with vibrant, juicy strawberries that practically sing “eat me!” This delightful creation isn’t just a treat for the senses; it’s a dessert that brings back memories of sunny picnics and family gatherings filled with laughter and love.
Every time I whip up this strawberry shortcake cheesecake, I am transported to warm summer afternoons spent at grandma’s house. She would serve her famous strawberry shortcake, and I would sneak in bites of cheesecake when no one was looking. It was a culinary crime I committed joyfully! The ideal occasion for this dessert? Birthdays, holiday celebrations, or even just a Tuesday because life is too short to skip dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This strawberry shortcake cheesecake is easy to prepare and requires no baking, making it perfect for all skill levels
- The delicious blend of flavors creates an irresistible treat everyone will adore
- With its stunning layers and vibrant colors, it’s sure to be the star of any dessert table
- Plus, you can easily adapt it for various occasions or dietary preferences!
I remember one summer barbecue when my niece took one bite and declared it the best thing ever—she even offered to trade her toys for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Crushed Graham Crackers: Use finely crushed graham crackers for a smooth base; they should resemble sand for easy mixing.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together; don’t skimp on quality here for more flavor.
Cream Cheese: Room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth texture; avoid lumps by mixing well.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances the sweetness; full-fat sour cream works best for creaminess.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the filling to your taste; adjust according to your love for sugar.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic touch; trust me, it makes a difference.
Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe berries for optimal sweetness; nothing beats fresh strawberries on top!
Whipped Cream: Lightens up each slice; homemade is preferred but store-bought works in a pinch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In another bowl, beat together room temperature cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
Add Flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The batter should smell delightful—if not, add more vanilla!
Pour and Bake: Pour the creamy mixture over your crust in the springform pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool Down and Chill Out!: Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for about an hour. This helps avoid cracks as it cools down. Afterward, refrigerate for at least four hours or preferably overnight.
Topping Time!: Slice fresh strawberries and layer them on top of your chilled cheesecake. If desired, drizzle with whipped cream or serve with extra on the side for those who need just a little more indulgence.
Now you have created an impressive strawberry shortcake cheesecake that will wow your friends and family! Enjoy every creamy bite while reminiscing about summers past or planning new gatherings around this delightful dessert.
You Must Know
- This strawberry shortcake cheesecake combines the best of both worlds, delivering a delightful fusion of flavors
- The creamy texture and fresh strawberries create a heavenly dessert experience that will impress anyone
- Perfect for gatherings, it’s an instant hit with family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while preheating the oven to 325°F. Next, blend your cheesecake filling until smooth before folding in strawberry puree. Finally, bake until set, then chill for that perfect slice.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries or add a splash of vanilla to the cheesecake mix for an extra flavor boost. You could even try a chocolate drizzle if you’re feeling indulgent!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For serving, simply slice and enjoy cold; no reheating needed here!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter that blends easily
- Make sure your crust is pressed firmly to avoid crumbling when sliced
- And don’t skip chilling—this step enhances the flavors beautifully!
I remember the first time I made this strawberry shortcake cheesecake; my friends devoured it within minutes and insisted I make it for every gathering since then.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well; just thaw and drain excess moisture beforehand.
How long does this cheesecake need to chill?
Chill the cheesecake for at least four hours for best results.
Can I use gluten-free cookies for the crust?
Absolutely! Gluten-free cookies make a delicious alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Indulge in the heavenly combination of creamy cheesecake and light, fluffy strawberry shortcake with this no-bake Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, summer gatherings, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. Relive cherished memories with every slice!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix well.
- Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for about 40 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour with the door ajar.
- Refrigerate for at least four hours (preferably overnight). Top with sliced strawberries and serve with whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
