Pin it 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 quickly become a favorite at family gatherings because of its unique layers and fresh strawberry 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 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.
- 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).
- Fold in topping:
- 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.
- Apply crumble:
- 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!
Pin it This recipe always brings smiles when shared with loved ones during special occasions.
Notes
Chilling overnight enhances both flavor and texture. Substitute Golden Oreos with graham crackers for a less sweet crust. For extra strawberry flavor, add a layer of fresh strawberries between the cheesecake and strawberry layers.
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). If using store-bought cookies or Jell-O, verify labels for potential allergens.
Pin it Enjoy this delightful dessert as a perfect finale for any celebration.
Common Questions
- → What type of crust works best for this dessert?
A crust made from graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Oreos, combined with melted butter and sugar, creates a sturdy, flavorful base.
- → How do I ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth?
Fully soften the cream cheese and beat it well with sugar before adding other ingredients to avoid lumps and achieve a creamy texture.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the cheesecake?
Chilling helps the layers to set firmly, enhances flavor blending, and ensures the dessert slices cleanly.
- → Can fresh strawberries be used in the topping?
Yes, folding chopped fresh strawberries into the strawberry gelatin and whipped topping adds natural sweetness and texture.
- → How is the crunchy crumble topping prepared?
Crushed cookies mixed with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder create a flavorful crumble that adds texture and visual appeal.