🍰 Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake 🍓
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Cake Layer:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For the Strawberry Topping:
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to keep it thick and glossy)
Instructions:
Prep the Pan: Line an 8-inch round springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Vanilla Cake Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla, then gradually incorporate the cold whipping cream while continuing to beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled cake layer. Place in the refrigerator while preparing the strawberry topping.
Cook the Strawberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy—about 5–7 minutes. Let cool slightly before spreading over the cheesecake layer.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the entire cake for at least 2 hours to set. Slice and serve chilled for best texture and flavor.