Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake

To create this decadent dessert, quality ingredients are key. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:

• Fresh Strawberries: The star ingredient! Look for ripe, vibrant berries that are fragrant and juicy.
• Cream Cheese: The foundation of the cheesecake layer, providing that rich, tangy flavor.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Essential for both the cheesecake and the whipped cream frosting. Go for the highest fat content you can find for maximum creaminess.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a warmth and depth to both the cake and frosting.
• Butter: Unsalted, and at room temperature, to achieve a perfectly moist cake.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar for sweetness and structure; confectioners’ sugar for the light, fluffy frosting.
• Flour: All-purpose flour gives the cake the right texture while being sturdy enough to support the layers.
• Eggs: Large, room temperature eggs ensure the cake is light and the cheesecake is silky.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture, so choosing high-quality components makes all the difference.

3. Baking Essentials and Tools

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9-inch Springform Pan (for the cheesecake layer)
• 9-inch Round Cake Pans (for the vanilla cake layers)
• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Offset Spatula (for smooth frosting application)
• Piping Bag with Star Tip (optional, for decorative touches)
• Parchment Paper
• Cooling Racks

Having everything ready ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking experience.

4. Step-by-Step Recipe

This recipe involves several components that come together to form the final cake. To ensure each layer is perfect, we’ll take it one step at a time.

Step 1: Preparing the Strawberry Cheesecake Layer

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pureed strawberries
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, pureed strawberries, and cornstarch. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door, letting the cheesecake cool gradually for an hour.
7. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Making the Moist Vanilla Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 3: The Sweet Strawberry Filling

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups diced fresh strawberries
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker filling)

Instructions:

1. Combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. If you prefer a thicker filling, stir in the cornstarch.
3. Let the filling cool completely before using.

Step 4: Crafting the Perfect Whipped Cream Frosting

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cream to separate.

Step 5: Assembly—Building the Masterpiece

1. Level the vanilla cakes by slicing off the domed tops.
2. Place one vanilla cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream frosting, followed by a generous layer of strawberry filling.
3. Carefully place the chilled strawberry cheesecake on top.
4. Spread another layer of strawberry filling on the cheesecake, followed by the second vanilla cake layer.
5. Frost the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting, using an offset spatula to smooth the sides and top.
6. For an extra touch, pipe decorative swirls of whipped cream around the top edge and garnish with fresh strawberries.

5. Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Chilling Time: Patience is key! Let the cheesecake chill fully before assembling to prevent a runny mess.
• Strawberry Puree: For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries and avoid over-pureeing. You want a smooth yet slightly textured consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

This cake is best served chilled, allowing the layers to stay firm and the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an elegant presentation:

• Garnish with whole strawberries, drizzled with melted chocolate.
• Slice the cake with a hot knife for clean cuts.
• Serve with a side of strawberry compote or extra whipped cream.

7. FAQs and Troubleshooting

• Why is my cheesecake layer cracking? Gradual cooling is key. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar to avoid drastic temperature changes.
• Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly.
• How long can I store this cake? Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices.

8. Conclusion: A Dessert Worth Every Bite

This Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of textures, from the creamy cheesecake to the fluffy cake and the burst of strawberry flavor, creates an unforgettable treat. Whether for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Try this recipe and let it bring joy to your table. Happy baking!