Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake
Introduction
Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines three beloved elements into one unforgettable treat: soft vanilla cake, rich creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberry flavor. This layered dessert is perfect for celebrations, holidays, birthdays, and special gatherings. Each bite delivers a balance of light cake, silky cheesecake, and sweet strawberries, making it both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Vanilla Cake Layers
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cream Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
Optional Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- White chocolate shavings
Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- One 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Offset spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, then eggs one at a time.
- Mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 40–45 minutes until set.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 3 hours.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cake Layers
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two round cake pans.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
- Divide batter evenly between pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Cool completely before assembling.
Step 3: Prepare Strawberry Filling
- Combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened and glossy.
- Cool completely before using.
Step 4: Make Cream Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar.
- Mix in vanilla and heavy cream until spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a thin layer of frosting.
- Spoon strawberry filling over the frosting.
- Place cheesecake layer on top.
- Add remaining strawberry filling.
- Top with second cake layer.
- Frost the top and sides evenly.
Tips for Best Results
- Chill cheesecake completely before layering.
- Level cake layers for even stacking.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for smooth batter.
- Allow strawberry filling to cool fully to prevent melting frosting.
- Refrigerate cake before slicing for clean layers.
Variations
- Use strawberry preserves instead of homemade filling.
- Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries.
- Swap vanilla cake for strawberry cake.
- Add whipped cream frosting for a lighter texture.
Storage
- Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days.
- Best served slightly chilled.
- Not recommended for freezing fully assembled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh strawberries on the side.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or sparkling lemonade.
- Perfect as a celebration centerpiece dessert.
Final Thoughts
Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake Cake is a luxurious dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. The combination of creamy cheesecake, fluffy cake layers, and bright strawberry filling creates a balanced, elegant dessert that will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.