Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake – The Ultimate Layered Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity charm of strawberry shortcake, this dessert is the perfect answer.
It features soft strawberry cake layers, a rich vanilla cheesecake center, fluffy cream cheese frosting, and a crunchy strawberry cookie topping.
Bold, beautiful, and absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients

🍓 Cookie Crumb Layer

• 36 vanilla sandwich cookies (Golden Oreos), coarsely crushed

• 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin mix

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 5–6 drops red or pink gel food coloring (optional)

🍓 Strawberry Cake Layers

• 1 (16.5 oz) box Strawberry Supreme cake mix

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin mix

🍓 Cheesecake Layer

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

🍓 Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups powdered sugar

Why This Dessert Stands Out

This cake is a true showstopper.
The strawberry layers are soft and vibrant, the cheesecake is creamy yet firm enough to slice cleanly, and the cookie crumb layer adds that nostalgic shortcake crunch.
Unlike many layered cakes, this one holds together beautifully and cuts effortlessly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cookie Crumb Layer

1. Crush the vanilla sandwich cookies until coarsely ground.

2. Add strawberry gelatin powder and mix.

3. Stir in melted butter and food coloring until evenly tinted.

4. Spread the crumbs onto a tray and let them dry or chill until slightly firm.

2. Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans; line with parchment.

3. Whisk together cake mix and gelatin.

4. Add eggs, melted butter, and milk. Mix for 2 minutes until smooth.

5. Divide batter between pans and bake 25–28 minutes.

6. Cool completely before assembling.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Reduce oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Grease and line an 8-inch springform pan.

3. Mix sugar and cornstarch. Add cream cheese and beat until smooth.

4. Add heavy cream and vanilla.

5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly.

6. Pour into the pan and bake 40–45 minutes.

7. Cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

8. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Make the Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.

2. Add powdered sugar gradually.

3. Add heavy cream and vanilla; beat until smooth.

5. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one strawberry cake layer on a plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting.

2. Add the cheesecake layer and a little more frosting.

3. Place the second strawberry cake layer on top.

4. Frost the entire cake.

5. Press strawberry cookie crumbs onto the sides and top.

6. Chill for 1 hour before slicing.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought cheesecake?

Yes — use an 8-inch firm, chilled cheesecake for a faster version.

Can this cake be made ahead?

Absolutely. Prepare all components 1–2 days in advance.
Assemble and chill overnight.

Is food coloring necessary?

No. It’s optional, but it makes the crumbs more vibrant.

How do I slice it cleanly?

Use a long sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze slices for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.