Oh my goodness, folks! If you have a sweet tooth like me, you’re in for a real treat today. I’m about to share with you my absolute favorite dessert: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake! Picture this: the delightful flavors of strawberry shortcake, creamy cheesecake, and a hint of nostalgia all packed into one delicious dish. It’s like summer in a bite!
I first stumbled upon this gem during a family gathering; my aunt whipped it up, and I still remember how it disappeared faster than my dessert-loving cousin could say “I want seconds!” This recipe combines rich cream cheese and fresh strawberries with a cookie crust that’s simply to die for. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for every spring picnic, birthday party, or just to enjoy on a Tuesday afternoon when you’re feeling a little extra!
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?
Crushed Strawberry Shortcake Cookies: These little cookies form the base of our indulgent dessert. If you can’t find strawberry shortcake cookies, any vanilla or shortcake cookie will do! I’ve even tossed in some graham crackers when in a pinch!
Cream Cheese: The creamy texture of softened cream cheese takes this dessert from good to downright divine. It’s the heart of our cheesecake mix — don’t skimp on it!
Powdered Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance out the cream cheese. I recommend sifting it before use to avoid any lumps.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is what gives our cheesecake a light and fluffy texture. Whipped to stiff peaks, it’s the dreamy cloud This is also key to achieving that lovely airy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this fragrant extract adds depth of flavor. I always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, diced strawberries bring that fresh fruity flavor we all crave. They also add a pop of color that makes the cheesecake gorgeous!
Strawberry Pudding Mix (instant): This is our secret weapon for adding that rich strawberry flavor in an instant! Pulverizing this into the cheesecake mix works magic.
Milk: We need two cups of milk but only for the pudding. Whole milk is my go-to for a creamier texture, but feel free to use any milk you prefer.
Red Food Coloring (optional): If you like your dessert to look as good as it tastes, a few drops can enhance the red hue of our strawberry cheesecake mix.
Is Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Good for You?
Let’s be real, this is a dessert meant for indulgence! But here are a few considerations:
Cream Cheese: While it’s creamy and delicious, it is calorie-dense. So, enjoy in moderation!
Fresh Strawberries: The star ingredient! They are packed with vitamins C and K, plus loads of antioxidants. So hey, it’s a little nutritious, right?
Heavy Whipping Cream: While it adds a delightful texture, it is high in fat and calories. Again, moderation is key!
Overall, this dessert isn’t winning any health awards, but it sure is winning hearts at the dessert table!
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ cups crushed strawberry shortcake cookies (or any vanilla/shortcake cookies)
– 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
– 1 cup strawberry pudding mix (instant)
– 2 cups milk (for pudding)
– Red food coloring (optional, for enhanced color)
**Servings:** This recipe serves about 8-10 happy dessert enthusiasts.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
3. In another bowl, prepare the strawberry pudding mix with the milk according to package instructions. Once thickened, fold it into the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture. If you want a deeper color, add a few drops of red food coloring.
4. In a baking dish, layer half of the crushed strawberry shortcake cookies at the bottom.
5. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the cookie layer. Sprinkle half of the diced strawberries over this layer.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining crushed cookies, cheesecake mixture, and diced strawberries.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of any extra crushed cookies on top for garnish.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
9. Serve chilled, slicing into squares or scooping out portions to enjoy.
Tips for the Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Experience
– Feel free to mix it up! You can use other fruit like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
– If you like a little crunch, add chopped nuts or some granola between the layers for texture.
– For a more decadent experience, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top before serving. The combination of chocolate and strawberries is heavenly!
I promise you, once you try making this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, you’ll be hooked. It’s a delicious way to celebrate special moments or simply treat yourself after a long day. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and dive into this creamy, fruity delight. I’d love to hear your thoughts after you give it a go! Happy baking!
