Sweet Symphony: Indulge in the Delight of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

 

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

For the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
3. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and flour.
5. Finally, add the sour cream and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

For the Strawberry Layer:

1. In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Allow the strawberry mixture to cool.
4. Once cooled, spread the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer.

For the Whipped Cream:

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the strawberry layer.

Chill:

1. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Serve:

Slice and serve your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, and enjoy!