Save A luscious dessert that marries creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake, topped with a vibrant strawberry layer and a crunchy cookie crumble.
This cheesecake quickly became a favorite at family gatherings, with everyone asking for seconds and the recipe to keep.
Ingredients
- Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or Golden Oreos crushed, ½ cup unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp sugar
- Cheesecake Layer: 24 oz cream cheese softened, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup sour cream, 3 large eggs room temperature, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Strawberry Layer: 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O, 1 cup boiling water, ½ cup cold water, 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or whipped cream), 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- Whipped Cream Topping: 2 cups heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Shortcake Crumble: 20 Golden Oreos or vanilla cookies crushed, 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O powder (dry)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare Crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Golden Oreos), sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake Crust:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just incorporated.
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just slightly wobbly. Remove from oven and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Prepare Strawberry Layer:
- In a bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Allow to cool and chill until the mixture is slightly thickened but not fully set (about 30–45 minutes).
- Fold in Topping and Strawberries:
- Gently fold in whipped topping and chopped strawberries. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until the layer is firm.
- Make Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Prepare Shortcake Crumble:
- In a bowl, combine crushed cookies with melted butter and dry strawberry Jell-O powder. Mix well until crumbs are evenly coated and vibrant in color.
- Assemble:
- Generously sprinkle the shortcake crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill the cake until ready to serve. Carefully run a knife around the edge and release from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
Save This dessert has been the highlight of many family celebrations, creating sweet memories and smiles.
Required Tools
9-inch springform pan, electric mixer or stand mixer, mixing bowls, rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, offset spatula (optional for smooth layers)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream whipped cream butter), eggs, wheat/gluten (cookies crackers), soy (may be present in cookies), artificial colors and flavors (Jell-O). Verify labels if using store-bought ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 450, total fat 30g, carbohydrates 40g, protein 6g
Save Enjoy this delightful treat chilled, perfect for celebrations or when craving a luscious dessert.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of crust is used in this dessert?
A buttery crust made from crushed graham crackers or Golden Oreos mixed with sugar and melted butter provides a crunchy base.
- → How is the strawberry layer prepared?
The strawberry layer is made by dissolving strawberry gelatin in boiling and cold water, then folding in whipped topping and fresh chopped strawberries before chilling.
- → Can the topping be made with whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, the topping uses freshly whipped heavy cream sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla for a rich, fluffy finish.
- → How long should the dessert chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allows the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- → Are there alternative options for the cookie crumble topping?
The shortcake crumble uses crushed cookies mixed with melted butter and dry strawberry gelatin to add texture and vibrant color, but variations can be used.