Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Recipe

This cake isn’t just dessert, it’s a centerpiece. If you’re looking to wow a crowd or make a birthday extra special, the Strawberry Cheesecake Cake delivers in every way. It’s the kind of cake that earns gasps at first sight and silence at first bite. From its moist strawberry cake layers to its creamy cheesecake center and dreamy frosting, this recipe brings bakery-level results right to your kitchen.

What makes this guide different is that it’s built for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner who wants a stress-free method or a seasoned baker ready to go all in from scratch, you’ll find everything you need right here. You won’t have to search two separate recipes and figure out how to combine them. This is the only version you’ll ever need to create a stunning, delicious strawberry cheesecake cake that fits your skill level and schedule.

What Makes This Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake So Irresistible

Two Desserts in One
You get the best of both worlds with moist, fluffy strawberry cake paired with a rich, creamy cheesecake layer. Each bite brings a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

A Recipe for Everyone
Whether you’re baking from scratch or using a shortcut, this guide gives you both options in one place. No need to search multiple recipes or guess how to combine them.

Foolproof Instructions
Step-by-step directions are paired with clear visuals. You’ll feel confident from start to finish, even if it’s your first time making a layered cake.

Showstopper Results
No matter which path you choose, the final cake is stunning and party-ready. It looks professionally made and tastes even better.

For another mind-blowing take on sweet-meets-luxury, check out this Crab Brûlée recipe — it’s like dessert got a savory twin in a tux.

The Best Way to Make Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Layers

Not everyone bakes the same way, and that’s okay. Some days you want the full from-scratch experience. Other times you need something quick but still impressive. This recipe gives you the freedom to choose. Both paths lead to a delicious, show-stopping Strawberry Cheesecake Cake. Pick the method that fits your mood, time, or skill level.

Path #1: The From-Scratch Baker’s Guide

This method is for those who love building flavor and texture from the ground up. Each layer is crafted with care using real ingredients and classic techniques.

Vanilla Strawberry Cake
You’ll make a vibrant strawberry cake using fresh strawberries, strawberry puree, and pantry staples. The result is a moist, tender crumb with bold fruit flavor.

Cheesecake Layer
Cream cheese, sugar, and eggs are blended into a smooth batter and baked low and slow. This forms the rich, creamy heart of your layered cake.

Strawberry Compote
A quick simmer of fresh strawberries, sugar, and gelatin gives you a flavorful filling that adds an extra burst of berry goodness between the layers.

Cream Cheese Frosting
Made with butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar, this frosting is smooth, thick, and just sweet enough to complement both cake and cheesecake.

Path #2: The Easy Shortcut Guide

Pressed for time but still want to impress? This version uses smart shortcuts that don’t sacrifice taste or style.

Boxed Strawberry Cake Mix
Start with a reliable cake mix and follow the package instructions with a few upgrades like extra vanilla or sour cream to boost flavor.

No-Bake Cheesecake Filling
Use softened cream cheese, whipped topping, and a touch of sugar to create a rich, fluffy layer that sets beautifully in the fridge.

Simple Crumble Topping
Crushed golden Oreos, whipped topping, and strawberry gelatin come together for a fun and colorful finish that mimics bakery-style cake crumbles.

Both paths offer delicious results. It’s up to you how hands-on you want to be. Either way, you’ll end up with a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

By the way—if you’re curious why cheesecake behaves so differently from custard, there’s a super helpful read on the difference between crème brûlée and custard. (Trust me, knowing this will make you feel like a dessert genius.)

Ingredients for the Perfect Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake

1- For the Strawberry Cake

• Strawberries, 1 cup, chopped
• Granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons
• Water, 1/4 cup
• Vanilla extract, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons
• All-purpose flour, 2 and 1/2 cups
• Granulated sugar, 1 cup
• Baking powder, 2 teaspoons
• Baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon
• Butter, 1 cup, softened and cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
• Sour cream, 1 cup
• Eggs, 3 large
• Strawberry puree, 1 cup, cooled
• Pink food coloring, a few drops to reach your desired shade (optional)
• Strawberry-flavored gelatin, 1 box, 3 ounces

2- For the Cheesecake Layer

• Cream cheese, 2 packages, softened
• Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup
• All-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons
• Eggs, 2 large
• Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon
• Heavy cream, 1/4 cup

3- For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• Butter, 2 sticks, softened
• Cream cheese, 1 package, softened
• Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons
• Heavy whipping cream, 3 tablespoons
• Powdered sugar, 3 to 4 cups

4- For the Crunch Topping

• Golden Oreos, 24 cookies, coarsely crushed
• Whipped topping, 1/4 cup, thawed
• Strawberry gelatin powder, 3 tablespoons

How to Make Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Step by Step

1.Preheat and Prepare

• Set your oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the sides with non-stick spray. Set aside.

2.Make the Cheesecake Layer

• Add softened cream cheese to the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat for five to six minutes until the texture becomes light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides. Slowly add granulated sugar and flour with the mixer on low speed. Once combined, switch to medium speed and mix for two to three more minutes. Add eggs one at a time while mixing on low. Scrape the bowl again, then add vanilla extract and mix for one to two minutes. Add heavy cream. Start on low and gradually increase to high speed. Mix until smooth and fluffy, about two to three minutes. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
• Bake at 350 degrees for ten minutes. Without opening the door, reduce the temperature to 200 degrees and bake for another 55 to 60 minutes until the center jiggles slightly and the edges are set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit for fifteen minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack, then chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight.

3.Prepare the Strawberry Puree

• In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, strawberry gelatin, and water. Bring to a boil and cook for two to three minutes until the berries soften and the sugar melts. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and puree until smooth. Set aside to cool.

4.Make the Cake Batter

• In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and baking powder. With the mixer on low, gradually add butter in small chunks until the mixture looks like wet sand. In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, eggs, and the cooled strawberry puree. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing. Once combined, add pink food coloring if desired. Scrape the sides of the bowl and beat on high for two to three minutes. Divide the batter evenly between two greased cake pans. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the cakes cool in the pans for ten minutes. Remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

5.Make the Frosting

• In a stand mixer, beat softened butter and cream cheese for two to three minutes until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix until just combined. Add powdered sugar one cup at a time while mixing on low. Scrape the bowl regularly. Add heavy cream, increase to high speed, and beat for two to three minutes until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

6.Prepare the Crumble

• Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor until you get coarse crumbs. Remove half to a bowl. To the remaining crumbs, add whipped topping and strawberry gelatin powder. Mix with a fork or your hands until well coated. Combine coated and plain crumbs and toss together gently.

7.Assemble the Cake

• Place one cooled cake layer face-down on a serving plate. Spread about three-fourths cup of frosting on top. Remove the ring from the cheesecake pan and flip the cheesecake layer face-down on the frosted cake. Peel off the parchment paper. Add a layer of frosting on top of the cheesecake. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Press the crumble topping gently onto the top and sides of the cake with your hands. For easy cleanup, set the cake on a large baking sheet to catch any loose crumbs. Store the finished cake in the refrigerator, covered or inside an airtight container.

Also, if you’re the kind of person who always has leftover rotisserie chicken in the fridge and still wants dessert after dinner, this brownie situation is perfect. Make it once and snack on it all week (or, ya know, one day if you’re like me).

Pro Tips for a Flawless Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Combo

Pro Tips for Success

Chill Everything
Make sure the cheesecake is completely chilled or even frozen before stacking. Cold layers are easier to handle and help the cake stay stable during assembly.

Level Your Layers
If your cake layers dome while baking, use a serrated knife to trim them flat. This helps the final cake sit evenly and prevents sliding.

Use a Cake Ring
During assembly, a cake ring keeps everything aligned. It creates clean sides and gives the finished cake a neat, professional look.

Pro tip: If you’ve got a box of chewy brownie mix, you can totally cheat and use that for the base. Just don’t tell Grandma.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why is my frosting runny?
This often happens if the butter or cream cheese is too soft. Use slightly cool ingredients and beat them until just fluffy. If needed, chill the frosting for fifteen minutes before using.

How do I stop my cake layers from doming?
Bake at a consistent temperature and avoid overmixing the batter. You can also use baking strips around your pans to keep the cake layers flat.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake all components a day in advance. Wrap them well and store in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake the next day for best texture and flavor.

How do I properly store the finished cake?
Keep the cake in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for three to four days. Let it sit at room temperature for about twenty minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing Your Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Creation

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake slightly chilled or let it sit out for twenty minutes before slicing. It pairs well with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of strawberry syrup, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. For celebrations, garnish the top with extra crumble, whipped cream swirls, or sliced berries.

Storage and Reheating

This cake stores best in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to four days. The frosting and layers hold up well without becoming soggy or dry. There is no need to reheat this dessert, but letting it warm slightly at room temperature before serving enhances the flavor.

Freezer Instructions and Meal Prep Plan

You can freeze the cheesecake and cake layers separately before assembly. Wrap each in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. For meal prep, assemble the full cake and freeze without the crumble topping. Add the crumble after thawing for the best texture. Portion slices and freeze them individually if needed for grab-and-go treats.

Helpful Notes

• To boost the strawberry flavor, add a few drops of strawberry extract to the cake batter or frosting.
• If you’re short on time, prepare the cake layers and cheesecake a day ahead and assemble the next day. This makes the process feel much easier.
• For a fun twist, mix a little lemon zest into the cheesecake batter for a bright, fresh contrast to the sweet strawberries.
• Use gel food coloring for the cake instead of liquid for a more vibrant pink without altering the texture.
• Golden Oreos add the best crunch and flavor for the crumble topping, but vanilla wafers can work in a pinch.
• Always chill the cake before slicing to help the layers stay clean and intact. Use a warm, sharp knife for perfect cuts.

Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Megan
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 12 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Strawberry Cake and Cheesecake is an indulgent layered dessert combining rich cheesecake with fluffy strawberry cake and a vibrant strawberry crumble topping.

 

---

Ingredients

• Cake:

  • 1 cup strawberries- chopped
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup butter- softened and cut into 1 tablespoon pieces
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup strawberry puree- cooled
  • multiple drops pink food coloring to get the color you’d like- optional
  • 1 3 oz box of strawberry jello

  Cheesecake Layer:

  • 2 packages cream cheese- softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup heavy cream

  Frosting:

  • 2 sticks butter- softened
  • 1 package cream cheese- softened
  • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
  • Crunch topping:
  • 24 golden Oreos- coarsely crushed
  • ¼ cup whipped topping- thawed
  • 3 Tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and prepare an 8” springform pan by adding a piece of parchment paper to the bottom and spraying the sides with non-stick spray and set aside.
2. To prepare the cheesecake layer, add the softened cream cheese to the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment. Cream for 5-6 minutes or until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
3. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the sugar and flour. Once the sugar is combined, increase to medium speed, and mix for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Reduce the mixer to low speed and add the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Last add the whipping cream and start the mixer on low speed and slowly increase. Mix on high speed for 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour the prepared batter into the prepared pan and gently tap to release any air bubbles.
7. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes then, without opening the oven door, reduce the heat to 200 and bake for an additional 55-60 minutes until the center slightly jiggles and the edges are set.
8. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool for 15 minutes before removing.
9. Allow to cool on a wire rack until completely cooled and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to overnight.

Cake

1. Prepare the strawberry puree by adding chopped strawberries, sugar, jello and water into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Let boil for 2-3 minutes or until the strawberries are softened and the sugar is melted. Pour into a food processor and puree. Set aside.
2. Add the flour, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder into the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment.
3. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the butter into the flour mixture.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, eggs, and strawberry puree and whisk together.
5. Slowly add the wet ingredients into the flour mixture and mix well.
6. Add in pink food coloring until you get the shade of pink you like and scrape the sides of the bowl and mix on high speed for 2-3 minutes.
7. Pour the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a stick inserted in the middle of each cake comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes then remove and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Frosting:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment, add the softened cream cheese and butter and cream for 2-3 minutes or until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla and mix until just combined.
2. With the mixer on low speed, add in the powdered sugar one cup at a time. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
3. Add the whipping cream and slowly increase the speed to high and mix for 2-3 minutes.

Crumble:

1. Add the Oreo cookies to a food processor and pulse until you get a coarse crumb. Remove half of the crumbs and add in the whipped topping and gelatin mix. Using a fork (or your hands make it a lot easier) mix the crumbs around until they are evenly coated. Pour back into the bowl with the plain cookie crumbs and lightly toss to evenly distribute.

Assembly:

1. Take one cake layer and place face-down onto a cake stand or serving plate. Generously top with about ¾ cup frosting and spread evenly.
2. Remove the ring from the springform pan and flip the cheesecake face-down onto the frosted cake layer, slowly take off the bottom of the springform pan and the parchment paper. Generously top the cheesecake layer with frosting.
3. Place the last cake layer on top and generously coat the cake with the remaining frosting and smooth.
4. Use your hand to gently press the crumble around the sides and top of the cake.

Notes

Make sure all layers are completely cooled or chilled before assembling for the best structure and flavor.

Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before stacking. Use a serrated knife to level cake layers for stability. Golden Oreos provide the ideal crunch for the topping, but vanilla wafers can be used as an alternative.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cake brings together the best of two desserts in one showstopping centerpiece. With a moist strawberry cake, a rich cheesecake layer, and a sweet creamy frosting, every bite feels like something special. Whether you take the from-scratch route or go with the shortcut version, this recipe guarantees delicious results without stress.

It’s flexible, impressive, and perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to make something unforgettable. You now have a step-by-step guide that suits your skills and schedule.

If you tried this recipe, leave a star rating and a comment below. Tell us how it went and share your photos on Pinterest or Facebook. Did you go full scratch or choose the easy path? Let us know your favorite twist.

LET’S STAY CONNECTED! FOLLOW ME ON:

Tried this recipe? I’d be thrilled to see your take on it! Snap a pic and tag me @Sweftyrecipes  so I can share your delicious creations with our foodie community.

→ FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST