Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Recipe

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
   2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir to combine.
   3. Cut the chilled butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   4. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until the dough just comes together. It should be slightly sticky but not wet. If necessary, add a bit more cream to bring the dough together.
   5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and press it into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use your fingers to spread the dough evenly across the pan, pressing it gently up the sides.
   6. Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash (whisked egg) for a golden finish.
   7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
   1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture.
   2. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Beat until fully combined.
   3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
   4. Once the cheesecake mixture is smooth, pour it into the cooled shortcake crust in the springform pan.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
   1. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.
   2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking.
   3. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
   1. While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the strawberry topping. In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Toss to combine, and let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
5. Assemble the Cake
   1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
   2. Spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake, letting some of the juices drizzle down the sides for extra flavor.
   3. Serve the cheesecake chilled, and enjoy the rich, creamy texture complemented by the fresh, sweet strawberries!
      

      Notes