Pin this 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 is one of my favorite desserts to serve during spring when strawberries are at their peak, and it never fails to impress guests with its layers and flavors.
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!
Pin this My family always gathers around this dessert for special occasions, creating warm memories with every shared slice.
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/flavors (Jell-O). Verify labels if using store-bought products.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 450, Total Fat 30g, Carbohydrates 40g, Protein 6g
Pin this Serve chilled for a refreshing treat that delights every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of crust works best for this dessert?
Both graham cracker crumbs and crushed Golden Oreos create a buttery, crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy layers.
- → How can I ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth?
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and blend until smooth and fluffy to avoid lumps.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the dessert for several hours?
Chilling allows the cheesecake to set firmly and the strawberry layer to thicken, enhancing flavor melding and texture.
- → Can I use fresh strawberries in the strawberry layer?
Yes, fresh strawberries are folded into the strawberry gelatin mixture to add natural sweetness and texture.
- → How is the shortcake crumble prepared?
Crushed cookies mixed with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder create a crunchy topping that adds flavor and texture contrast.