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 recipe quickly became a favorite at family gatherings because of its unique combination and delightful texture contrast.
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 the oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare the 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 the crust:
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes then set aside to cool.
- Make the 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 the 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 toppings:
- 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 always brings smiles and warmth during family celebrations and is requested every holiday season.
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/flavors (Jell-O) If using store-bought cookies or Jell-O verify labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 450 Total Fat 30g Carbohydrates 40g Protein 6g per serving
Save This recipe is perfect for impressing guests with a stunning layered dessert. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of crust is used?
The crust can be made from either crushed graham crackers or Golden Oreos, combined with melted butter and sugar for a firm base.
- → How do I prepare the strawberry layer?
Strawberry gelatin is dissolved in boiling water then cooled before folding in whipped topping and chopped fresh strawberries, creating a light and fruity layer.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the dessert overnight helps the layers set firmly and enhances the flavors.
- → What is the shortcake crumble topping made from?
Crushed cookies combined with melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder create a crunchy, flavorful topping that complements the creamy layers.
- → Are there alternatives to the cookies used for the crust and crumble?
Graham crackers can replace Oreos for the crust, and vanilla cookies can be used for the crumble to adjust sweetness levels and texture.