Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream

For the Strawberry Crumble:

• 1/2 cup (60g) freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
• 1/2 cup (60g) vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
5. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Mix in vanilla and sour cream until creamy.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set.
6. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Crumble

1. In a bowl, mix crushed freeze-dried strawberries, vanilla wafer crumbs, and melted butter until combined.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar.
2. Mix in heavy cream and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Add the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
3. Place the second cake layer over the cheesecake.
4. Frost the entire cake with buttercream frosting.
5. Press strawberry crumble around the sides and top.
6. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert with layers of creamy cheesecake, fluffy cake, and a crunchy strawberry topping. It’s a must-try for any dessert lover!