Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Fusion
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert delight with our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Fusion! This dessert is a heavenly blend of cookie crumbs, delightful strawberry cake, and rich, creamy cheesecake that will turn any celebration into a memorable experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this fusion dessert will steal the spotlight!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of strawberries and creamy textures, this cake is tailor-made for you. Imagine a luscious cheesecake layered between soft, moist strawberry cake, all held together by a crumbly cookie crust. Each bite captures the essence of summer, with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries combined with the rich creaminess of cheesecake. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. This dessert is a triple threat that will have your guests raving!
Ingredients
To create this dessert marvel, gather the following ingredients the night before for a smooth baking experience:
Crumb Coating:
- 36 vanilla sandwich cookies, crushed
- 3 oz strawberry gelatin mix
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- Red food gel (optional, for decoration)
For the Cake Layers:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3 oz strawberry gelatin
For the Cheesecake:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Directions
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven heats up, prepare the cookie crumbs. Place 36 vanilla sandwich cookies in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. In a bowl, combine the crushed cookies with 4 tablespoons of melted butter and 3 oz of strawberry gelatin mix until well blended. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking pan and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove and allow to cool.
Step 2: Next, prepare the strawberry cake layers. In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, 3 eggs, ½ cup melted butter, 1 cup of milk, and 3 oz of strawberry gelatin. Mix until smooth. Divide the batter equally between two 9-inch round cake pans and bake them in the oven for 24 to 28 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Now it’s time for the cheesecake layer. In another bowl, beat together 16 oz of softened cream cheese and ¾ cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in 3 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake batter into a greased springform pan and bake at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 40 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for about an hour before removing it. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before assembling the cake.
Step 4: Prepare the frosting for the cake by beating together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of softened butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fluffy. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar and continue to beat until smooth.
Step 5: To assemble the cake, start with one layer of the strawberry cake on the serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting over the first cake layer, then place the chilled cheesecake on top. Add another layer of frosting over the cheesecake, followed by the second layer of strawberry cake. Use the remaining frosting to cover the outside of the entire cake.
Step 6: Finally, press the cooled cookie crumb mixture around the outer edges and on top of the cake for a decorative finish. Optionally, you can add some red food gel for extra color. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers and cheesecake a day in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?
For a fresh strawberry flavor, you can use pureed fresh strawberries as a substitute for the gelatin. However, this may affect the overall texture.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the cake to keep it moist.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or soft ricotta cheese as a substitute for cream cheese but keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cake, although the texture may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Fusion is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! Combining the best attributes of the strawberry cake, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy cookie crumb coating makes this recipe a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. So go ahead, impress your family and friends! With this dessert, we promise you will be the star of any gathering.
