Strawberry cheesecake cake is a dessert that blends the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake and light, fluffy strawberry cake. Whether you’re planning a celebration or just want to indulge in something special, this strawberry cheesecake cake recipe is a must-try. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or a delightful treat to brighten up your week.
At Tonya Recipes, my goal is to inspire you to create simple, delicious meals, and this dessert is no exception. Combining layers of strawberry cake with a creamy cheesecake center and a smooth, tangy frosting, it’s a recipe that anyone—whether you’re a busy parent or a food enthusiast—can master. Let’s dive into what makes this cake the star of any dessert table!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Cake Recipe
This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s a showstopper! Here’s why this homemade strawberry cheesecake cake recipe will become one of your go-to desserts:
- Flavor Explosion: The rich, creamy cheesecake complements the fruity sweetness of strawberry cake, creating a delightful balance in every bite.
- Variety of Textures: You’ll love the contrast between the velvety cheesecake and the soft, fluffy cake layers. The frosting adds a tangy creaminess that ties it all together.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or casual family gathering, this cake is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- Simple Yet Impressive: Despite its intricate look, this strawberry cheesecake cake recipe is surprisingly easy to follow. With just a little patience, you’ll create a dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients Overview: A Perfect Blend of Flavors
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients you’ll need for each layer of the cake:
Cheesecake Layer
- Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake, providing that smooth, creamy texture.
- Sugar & Eggs: For sweetness and structure.
- Sour Cream & Whipping Cream: These ingredients add richness and creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
Strawberry Cake
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: These create the purée that infuses the cake with a natural strawberry flavor.
- Flour, Sugar, & Butter: The classic cake base ingredients for a light, fluffy texture.
- Egg Whites: Help create a lighter crumb for the cake.
- Vanilla Extract & Milk: Balances the sweetness and adds moisture.
Strawberry Frosting & Toppings
- Cream Cheese & Butter: The base of the frosting, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Strawberry Purée: Adds a fruity, tangy flavor to the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar & Heavy Cream: Ensures the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Optional Toppings: Fresh strawberries and white chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cheesecake Layer
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps everything blend smoothly. You’ll need to soften the cream cheese and bring the eggs and sour cream to room temperature.
Mixing the Cheesecake Batter
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Fold in the sour cream, whipping cream, and vanilla extract.
Baking the Cheesecake
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Pour the batter into a 9-inch springform pan, and bake for about 45 minutes.
- Once baked, let the cheesecake cool on a wire rack before freezing it for 4 to 5 hours. This step is crucial to ensure the cheesecake layer is firm and easy to handle during assembly.
Strawberry Cake Recipe: A Sweet and Fruity Base
Making the Strawberry Purée
To create a concentrated strawberry flavor, cook fresh or frozen strawberries until soft. Purée them and reduce the liquid to a syrupy consistency.
Mixing the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg whites and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients—flour and baking powder—and gradually fold them into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and strawberry purée.
- Add a few drops of pink food coloring for a vibrant hue, if desired.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.
Strawberry Frosting Recipe: Smooth and Tangy Finish
Cream Cheese Frosting Base
To make the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. This base will give your frosting a creamy, tangy flavor.
Adding the Strawberry Flavor
Blend in the strawberry purée or strawberry extract for a fruity twist. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream until the frosting is thick yet spreadable.
Frosting Consistency
Aim for a consistency that’s easy to spread but thick enough to hold its shape when decorating. If needed, adjust with extra powdered sugar or cream.
Assembling the Strawberry Cheesecake Cake: Layering with Precision
Layering the Cake
- Place one strawberry cake layer on your serving plate.
- Gently remove the cheesecake from the freezer, trimming it if necessary to match the size of the cake layers.
- Place the cheesecake layer on top of the first cake layer.
- Add the second strawberry cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
Crumb Coat Application
Apply a thin layer of frosting (known as a crumb coat) to trap any stray crumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Final Frosting and Decoration
Once the crumb coat is set, frost the cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate with fresh strawberries and optional toppings like white chocolate shavings or crumble for extra texture.
Pro Tips for Success: Ensuring Perfect Results Every Time
- Even Cake Layers: Use bake-even strips or trim the cake tops to ensure your layers are perfectly flat.
- Cheesecake Handling: Freezing the cheesecake layer for a few hours ensures it’s firm and easy to stack between the cake layers.
- Frosting Like a Pro: To get a smooth finish, use a long offset spatula, and refrigerate between coats for a professional-looking cake.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Every Occasion
This strawberry cheesecake cake recipe is ideal for:
- Birthday Parties: A perfect centerpiece for any birthday celebration.
- Holiday Gatherings: Wow your guests with this decadent dessert.
- Casual Get-Togethers: It’s impressive enough for special occasions but simple enough for a weeknight treat.
When serving, use a serrated knife to cut clean slices and ensure the cheesecake layer holds its shape.
Storage and Freezing Tips: Enjoying Your Cake for Days
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing the Cake: You can freeze individual slices or the entire cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Defrost it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Defrosting Tips: When ready to enjoy, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Frozen?
Yes! Fresh strawberries work perfectly for the purée and garnish.
How Long Should I Freeze the Cheesecake Layer?
Freeze for at least 4 to 5 hours or until the cheesecake is firm enough to handle.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can make the cheesecake layer and cake layers a day in advance, then assemble and frost on the day you plan to serve it.
Additional Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out these other irresistible desserts:
- Peach Cobbler Cake Mix Dessert – A quick and delicious dessert idea for fruit lovers.
- Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies – Soft, chewy cookies packed with banana and chocolate.
- The Best Big Texas Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Ever Eat – A delightful breakfast treat for cinnamon roll lovers.
Recipe Card: Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Cream Cheese | 2 packages (8 oz each) |
Sugar | 2/3 cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Sour Cream | 1/3 cup |
Whipping Cream | 1/3 cup |
Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
Frozen Strawberries (purée) | 2 cups |
Flour | 2 ¼ cups |
Instructions:
- Prepare cheesecake layer as described.
- Make strawberry cake layers.
- Assemble, frost, and decorate the cake.
Nutritional Information: 643 calories per slice
Enjoy this easy-to-follow recipe and experience the magic of a homemade strawberry cheesecake cake!