Indulging in a rich, creamy dessert that marries the best elements of a classic strawberry shortcake and cheesecake is a true delight. This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake brings together the velvety texture of cheesecake with the bright, fruity flavors of fresh strawberries, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or celebrating a family gathering, this luscious dessert promises to impress everyone at the table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You’ll absolutely love this dessert for many reasons. First, its balance of creaminess from the cheesecake and the lightness from fresh strawberries creates a dessert that sings of sunny days and joyful gatherings. Ideal for special occasions or even a satisfying end to a weeknight dinner, this cheesecake is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the combination of flavors — buttery crust, smooth cream cheese, and juicy strawberries — elevates it beyond the ordinary dessert.

"This is my go-to dessert for every summer gathering! It’s always a hit, and I love how easy it is to impress my friends and family." – Happy Baker

Step-by-step Overview

Creating this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake is a straightforward and rewarding process. You’ll start by preparing a delicious graham cracker crust that provides the perfect base. While it bakes, whip up the creamy cheesecake filling that features rich cream cheese and a touch of lemon for brightness. After baking, top it all off with fresh strawberries tossed in a sweet strawberry syrup, and let it chill for an indulgent finish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake:

• Crust:

  • 2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies (optional)
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar

• Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tang)

• Topping:

  • 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup strawberry jam or jelly
  • 1 tablespoon water (to loosen the jam)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

You can easily substitute non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan option, and use a sugar alternative if you prefer a low-sugar recipe.