This Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake is an absolute showstopper! With its rich layers of creamy cheesecake, fluffy vanilla cake, and the freshest strawberries, this dessert is perfect for any celebration. The combination of velvety cream cheese frosting and a decadent chocolate drizzle makes it not only beautiful but incredibly delicious.
A Decadent Dessert with Layers of Flavor
This cake is a true masterpiece with each layer offering a burst of flavor. From the moist vanilla cake to the creamy cheesecake, all topped with fresh strawberries and chocolate ganache, each bite is pure heaven. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or a special dinner, this cheesecake cake is bound to impress your guests!
The Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake takes classic ingredients and transforms them into something elegant and indulgent. The smooth cream cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries, while the rich chocolate adds a touch of decadence.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
There’s so much to adore about this cake. It’s not just visually stunning, but the combination of textures—fluffy, creamy, and slightly crunchy—makes every forkful a delight. This is more than just a dessert; it’s a special occasion on a plate!
- A perfect balance of sweet and creamy.
- Moist layers of cake combined with cheesecake.
- Fresh strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness.
- Chocolate ganache adds richness to every bite.
- Ideal for parties, anniversaries, or as a special treat!
This cake is as delicious as it is beautiful, and the best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to put together! Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this stunning dessert.
Ingredients for Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake
To make this Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake, you’ll need a combination of basic cake ingredients, cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a few extra toppings to take it to the next level. Each component comes together to create a dessert that is visually stunning and packed with flavor.
For the Cake Layers
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake and gives it structure.
- Granulated sugar – Adds the sweetness needed to balance the tartness of the strawberries and cream cheese.
- Eggs – Provides the cake with structure and richness, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
- Unsalted butter – Makes the cake moist and adds a rich flavor.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the cake’s flavor.
- Baking powder – Helps the cake rise and become airy.
- Milk – Ensures the cake layers stay moist and tender.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese – The star of the cheesecake layer, it creates a creamy, tangy filling that complements the strawberries.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the other flavors.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses the cheesecake with warmth and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- Eggs – Help set the cheesecake layer, giving it structure while keeping it smooth and creamy.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese provides the base for this luscious frosting.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and smooth.
- Vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the frosting and balances the cream cheese’s tanginess.
- Heavy cream – Helps make the frosting creamy and spreadable.
For the Strawberry Layer and Garnish
- Fresh strawberries – Use the juiciest, ripest strawberries for both the filling and as a garnish on top of the cake. They add a bright, fresh flavor to balance the richness of the cake.
For the Chocolate Ganache
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melted chocolate chips form a glossy ganache that drips beautifully over the sides of the cake.
- Heavy cream – Adds richness to the ganache, creating that perfect velvety texture.
How to Make the Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake
Creating this cake is a straightforward process, but it does involve multiple steps that come together to form one stunning dessert. It’s worth every bit of effort, and once you see (and taste!) the final result, you’ll know why!
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Start by mixing the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs to create the smooth cheesecake filling. Pour it into a lined springform pan and bake until just set. Allow it to cool completely.
- Bake the Cake Layers: While the cheesecake cools, prepare the vanilla cake layers by creaming the butter and sugar, adding in the eggs and vanilla, and finally incorporating the dry ingredients and milk. Divide the batter between two cake pans and bake until golden brown.
- Make the Frosting: Beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy. This frosting will be used to fill and cover the cake.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers and cheesecake are fully cooled, layer the cakes with the cheesecake in the center. Spread cream cheese frosting between each layer and cover the entire cake with a smooth layer of frosting.
- Chocolate Ganache Drip: Prepare the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream and pouring it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy, then carefully drizzle it over the edges of the cake for a dramatic finish.
- Decorate with Strawberries: Finally, top the cake with fresh strawberries for a bright and beautiful garnish. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the perfect bite every time.
How Long to Make Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake
Timing is key when making this Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake. Since it has multiple components—including the cake layers, cheesecake, frosting, and ganache—it’s important to plan ahead to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and get the best results.
Baking Times for Each Component
The cake consists of three main elements: the cheesecake layer, cake layers, and frosting. Each requires specific attention and timing to ensure everything bakes and sets properly.
- Cheesecake Layer: The cheesecake takes the longest to prepare and bake. It will need approximately 45-55 minutes in the oven at 325°F. Once baked, allow it to cool in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to fully set.
- Vanilla Cake Layers: The cake layers are quicker to bake, taking around 25-30 minutes in a 350°F oven. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before assembling the cake, which can take 1-2 hours at room temperature.
Total Assembly Time
Once all your components are baked and fully cooled, you’ll need about an hour to assemble and decorate the cake. Here’s a breakdown:
- Frosting and Assembling: Spread the cream cheese frosting between the layers and cover the entire cake with frosting. This takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Ganache Drip: After preparing the chocolate ganache, allow it to cool slightly before dripping it over the edges of the cake. This step should take about 10 minutes.
- Decorating with Strawberries: Arranging the strawberries on top of the cake is the final touch. This takes about 5-10 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Chilling the Cheesecake: For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight. This will make it much easier to handle when assembling the cake.
- Cooling Time: Be sure to allow plenty of time for your cake layers and cheesecake to cool completely before assembling. This prevents the frosting from melting and keeps the layers sturdy.
- Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the cheesecake and cake layers a day ahead and assemble the cake the following day. This helps break up the process and ensures everything is at the right temperature for assembly.
Storage and Leftovers
Storing this cake properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are the best ways to keep your cake fresh:
- Refrigerate: Since this cake contains both cream cheese and fresh fruit, it should be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing the Cake: You can also freeze this cake! Once the cake is fully assembled and chilled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight.
Final Tips for Perfection
- Let the Cake Rest Before Slicing: After frosting and decorating, let the cake rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the frosting will firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Use a Serrated Knife: When cutting through the cake, use a serrated knife to ensure clean slices through all the layers without squishing the delicate cheesecake.
By following these timing and storage tips, your Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake will come out perfect, every single time!
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Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Description
Indulge in the ultimate combination of flavors and textures with this Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake! This stunning dessert layers moist vanilla cake, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries, all topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and a rich chocolate ganache drip. It’s perfect for any celebration and is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Cake Layers:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
For the Ganache Drip:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For Decoration:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until set. Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. - Bake the Vanilla Cake Layers:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Divide the batter between the two pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely. - Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat in the heavy cream until the frosting is light and fluffy. - Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cake. Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top, followed by another thin layer of frosting. Add the second cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. - Make the Ganache:
Heat the heavy cream until steaming, but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly, then drip it over the sides of the cake using a spoon. - Decorate:
Top the cake with fresh strawberries, and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
The cheesecake and cake layers can be made a day ahead, allowing for easier assembly.
Store the finished cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months.
For a fun variation, try using chocolate cake layers instead of vanilla!
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
