STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE CHEESECAKE CAKE
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cake:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup strawberry puree (blend fresh strawberries)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
Fresh strawberries, sliced
Strawberry puree or strawberry jam
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk and strawberry puree, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving platter.
Remove the chilled cheesecake layer from the springform pan and place it on top of the strawberry cake layer.
Place the second strawberry cake layer on top of the cheesecake layer.
Frost the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the top of the cake with fresh sliced strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry puree or strawberry jam.
Slice and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time) | Servings: 12
