This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake is a stunning dessert that combines layers of moist strawberry cake, creamy cheesecake, and a luscious whipped frosting, all topped with a crunchy strawberry shortcake crumble. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it perfect for celebrations or simply indulging in a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup milk
- 6 oz strawberry gelatin mix
- ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
For the Shortcake Crumble:
- 15 butter cookies
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ice water
- 6 oz strawberry gelatin mix
- 3 drops red food coloring
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together cake mix and strawberry gelatin.
- Add egg whites, vegetable oil, and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in chopped strawberries.
- Pour batter into two 9-inch cake pans and bake for 20 minutes.
- Let cool completely before removing from pans.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, cornstarch, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sugar.
- Pour batter into a 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, then let cool completely.
- Prepare the Shortcake Crumble:
- Pulse butter cookies, melted butter, and ice water in a food processor until crumbly.
- Remove half of the mixture and set aside.
- Add strawberry gelatin and red food coloring to the remaining crumbs, pulsing until combined.
- Spread both mixtures on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Let cool, then break apart into crumbles.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add heavy whipping cream and vanilla, mixing well.
- Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place the cheesecake layer with crust on a serving plate.
- Add a strawberry cake layer on top.
- Place the crustless cheesecake layer next, followed by the second strawberry cake layer.
- Frost the entire cake with cream cheese frosting.
- Sprinkle shortcake crumbles over the top and sides.
- Let the cake sit for 20 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake:
- Use fresh strawberries for a more vibrant flavor.
- Chill the cheesecake layer before assembling to make handling easier.
- For extra crunch, add crushed freeze-dried strawberries to the crumble.
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Try it out and let me know how it turns out! 😋