strawberry-cheesecake-cake-recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cake Recipe – Perfect Summer Dessert

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Introduction: The Best of Both Desserts

When summer hits its stride and strawberries are at their peak, few desserts feel more celebratory than a strawberry cheesecake cake recipe. This recipe is a beautiful union of two beloved sweets: fluffy, moist strawberry cake and rich, creamy cheesecake all layered together into one unforgettable dessert.

The first time I made this cake was for a family picnic on the Fourth of July. I wanted something cool, colorful, and indulgent that could still hold up in the heat. The layers sliced like a dream, and the mix of fruity lightness and dense creaminess made everyone ask for seconds.

Whether you’re hosting a summer birthday, looking for a show-stopping potluck dessert, or just want to treat yourself to a slice of something spectacular, this strawberry cheesecake cake delivers.

What Is a Strawberry Cheesecake Cake?

A strawberry cheesecake cake recipe is exactly what it sounds like part decadent cheesecake, part fluffy strawberry cake, layered together into one jaw-dropping dessert. It blends the rich, tangy creaminess of cheesecake with the light, fruity charm of strawberry cake, often finished with a creamy frosting or fresh berry topping.

What sets this dessert apart is its structure. Instead of swirling flavors into one layer, the cheesecake is baked separately and then sandwiched between two layers of moist strawberry cake. When sliced, it reveals distinct layers that taste just as impressive as they look.

This is not your average sheet cake or no-bake cheesecake it’s a celebration dessert, made to impress. And yet, with some planning and step-by-step guidance, it’s entirely doable at home with no special bakery tools required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Two Desserts in One: Get the best of both worlds fluffy strawberry cake and rich cheesecake layered into one stunning slice.

  • Perfect for Summer: Cool, creamy, and bursting with berry flavor, this cake is made for warm-weather celebrations.

  • Visually Impressive: With its distinct layers and vibrant color, it’s a showstopper at any gathering.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Both components can be made in advance, making it a low-stress option for entertaining.

  • Customizable: Add a graham cracker crust, fresh berry compote, or a lemon glaze for your own signature twist.

  • Family Favorite: A hit with kids and adults alike, it’s sweet without being overwhelming and always leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a barbecue, or just treating yourself to something special, this cake turns an ordinary summer day into something extraordinary.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ¼ cup sour cream

  • Pinch of salt

Strawberry Cake Components:

  • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder

  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • ⅓ cup sour cream

  • ½ cup buttermilk

  • ½ cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries, blended and strained)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Optional: pink food coloring for a deeper hue

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 3 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (to adjust texture)

Garnish Ideas:

  • Fresh strawberries, halved or sliced

  • Strawberry preserves or compote

  • Crushed graham crackers for added crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.

  • Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and salt. Mix until fully combined and smooth.

  • Pour into prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.

  • Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.

  • In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.

  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Fold in the strawberry puree. Add food coloring if desired.

  • Divide batter between pans and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  • Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time.

  • Mix in vanilla and cream until frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

4. Assemble the Cake

  • Level cake layers if necessary. Place one strawberry cake layer on a plate or cake stand.

  • Add the chilled cheesecake layer. If it’s not flat, gently trim the top.

  • Top with the second strawberry cake layer.

  • Frost the top and sides with cream cheese frosting. Smooth or swirl the finish as preferred.

5. Garnish and Chill

  • Decorate with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of preserves, or crushed graham crackers.

  • Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing to help the layers set.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cheesecake cake recipe is ideal for warm-weather gatherings and makes a beautiful centerpiece for any dessert table. Here’s how to serve it at its best:

Presentation Tips

  • Slice the cake with a hot, clean knife for neat layers wipe between cuts for clean lines.

  • Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry on top.

  • Drizzle with strawberry preserves or compote to add color and an extra punch of flavor.

Perfect Pairings

  • Pair with chilled drinks like sparkling lemonade, iced tea, or a rosé wine.

  • Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean or strawberry ice cream for a more decadent dessert.

  • Add a few mint leaves for a touch of color and a hint of freshness.

When to Serve

  • Ideal for birthdays, summer cookouts, bridal showers, or as a make-ahead dessert for Sunday dinner.

  • Because it’s served chilled, it’s especially refreshing on hot days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Make-Ahead Options

  • The cheesecake layer can be baked up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped.

  • Cake layers can be baked a day ahead and kept at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, or refrigerated for longer freshness.

  • The frosting can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Storing the Assembled Cake

  • Store the fully assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered with a cake dome or loosely wrapped in plastic wrap.

  • It keeps well for up to 4 days. The flavor improves after a day as the layers settle and meld.

Freezing Tips

  • You can freeze individual slices by wrapping tightly in plastic and then foil. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

  • Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Avoid Room Temperature Storage

  • Because of the cheesecake and cream cheese frosting, this cake should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Variations

Lemon-Strawberry Cheesecake Cake

  • Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake layer or cake batter.

  • Finish with a lemon glaze instead of frosting for a citrus-forward finish.

Chocolate Swirl Version

  • Swirl melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake layer before baking for a dramatic visual and flavor twist.

  • Top the frosted cake with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of ganache.

Berry Medley

  • Replace part of the strawberry puree with blueberry or raspberry puree.

  • Garnish with a mix of fresh summer berries for a patriotic or seasonal theme.

Graham Cracker Base

  • Bake the cheesecake layer over a graham cracker crust (press ¾ cup crushed graham crackers mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter into the bottom of the pan before adding the cheesecake mixture).

Mini Layer Cakes or Cupcakes

  • Use smaller round pans or cupcake molds for individual servings perfect for parties or picnics.

Gluten-Free Option

  • Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour in the cake layers.

  • Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Occasions and Presentation Ideas

When to Serve It

  • Summer Parties: This cake is perfect for warm-weather celebrations serve it at garden parties, backyard cookouts, or poolside get-togethers.

  • Birthdays: A festive alternative to standard birthday cakes, especially for strawberry lovers.

  • Brunch Events: Pairs beautifully with coffee and fruit platters for bridal showers, baby showers, or Mother’s Day.

  • Holiday Tables: Offers a refreshing twist during spring holidays like Easter or Fourth of July.

Presentation Tips

  • Use a cake stand for a dramatic presentation.

  • Decorate the top with concentric circles of sliced strawberries or a rustic arrangement of whole berries and mint sprigs.

  • Serve slices with a small pitcher of berry compote for guests to drizzle over their plates.

For a Clean, Professional Finish

  • Chill the cake thoroughly before slicing.

  • Wipe the knife clean between each cut to maintain sharp, distinct layers.

  • Use acetate cake collars or a springform ring to keep the frosting smooth during assembly.

Pro Tips for Assembly and Flavor

1. Level Cake Layers for Stability

  • Use a serrated knife or cake leveler to even out the tops of your cake layers. This ensures the cheesecake layer sits flat and the cake doesn’t slide during frosting.

2. Chill Before Assembling

  • Always allow the cheesecake layer to chill fully (preferably overnight). This makes it firm enough to stack and prevents melting or cracking during assembly.

3. Handle with Care

  • Transfer the cheesecake layer using a cake board or the base of a springform pan. Chilling makes this easier and reduces the risk of breaking.

4. Apply a Crumb Coat

  • For a clean frosting finish, apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill briefly, then add the final layer of frosting.

5. Use Real Strawberry Puree

  • Opt for fresh or frozen strawberries, pureed and strained, for the most vibrant flavor and natural color. Avoid artificial flavoring if possible.

6. Serve Slightly Chilled

  • For the best texture and flavor contrast, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes after removing from the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix for the strawberry layers?
A: Yes. A strawberry-flavored boxed mix can save time just bake according to package directions and pair with the homemade cheesecake and frosting.

Q: Do I need to use a water bath for the cheesecake layer?
A: It’s not necessary for this recipe since the cheesecake is sandwiched between layers. Baking it without a water bath works well as long as it’s not overbaked.

Q: How do I keep the layers from sliding?
A: Make sure all layers are completely cool before stacking. Use a bit of frosting between layers to help them adhere, and chill the cake before serving.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. All layers can be made 1–2 days in advance. Assemble and frost the day you plan to serve or up to a day before.

Q: How do I transport the cake?
A: Chill the cake thoroughly before traveling. Use a cake carrier or box and keep it cool with an ice pack if possible.

Share Your Strawberry Cheesecake Cake

Tried this strawberry cheesecake cake recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out.

Leave a comment below with your favorite twist did you add extra berries, swap the frosting, or give it a new flavor twist?
And if you share a photo on Instagram or Pinterest, tag it with #StrawberryCheesecakeCake so others can be inspired by your creation.

This cake brings people together. Let your version inspire the next slice!

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