Save to Pinterest 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 dessert has become a favorite at family gatherings and special occasions, always impressing guests with its layers and vibrant taste.
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).
- Combine Strawberry Layer:
- 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 Cake:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save to Pinterest Making this dessert always brings the family together as we share stories and enjoy the sweet treat.
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 for potential allergens if using store-bought products.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 450 calories, 30g total fat, 40g carbohydrates, 6g protein.
Save to Pinterest This cheesecake is the perfect blend of flavor and texture, sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best crust for this dessert?
Both graham cracker crumbs and crushed Golden Oreos work well, providing a sweet and crunchy base.
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake layer?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat it with sugar until fluffy before adding other ingredients.
- → Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, chilling overnight improves flavor and texture by allowing the layers to fully set and meld together.
- → What is the purpose of the strawberry gelatin layer?
It adds a vibrant, fruity layer with fresh strawberries that complements the creamy cheesecake beneath.
- → How is the shortcake crumble made?
Crushed cookies mixed with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder create a crunchy topping that adds texture.
- → Can I substitute ingredients to suit dietary needs?
Substituting crust ingredients like using graham crackers instead of cookies can adjust sweetness; however, key creamy components contain dairy and eggs.