How to make strawberry cream cheese cake

If you love rich, creamy desserts with fresh strawberry flavor, this strawberry cream cheese cake is a must-try! It combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the tangy richness of cream cheese, and the light, moist texture of a perfectly baked cake into one irresistible treat.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent. The smooth cream cheese layer adds a velvety richness, while the strawberry filling gives it a burst of fruity freshness. Topped with a light, whipped frosting and fresh strawberries, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.

The best part? This homemade strawberry cream cheese cake is easier to make than you think! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this step-by-step guide will help you create a bakery-quality dessert right at home.

Key Benefits of Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

This strawberry cream cheese cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves creamy, fruity, and moist cakes. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, here’s why this cake is a must-try:

✔️ Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and moist cake layers creates a rich yet refreshing dessert.

✔️ Incredibly Moist and Soft – Thanks to butter, sour cream, and fresh strawberries, this cake stays moist and fluffy with every bite.

✔️ Decadent Cream Cheese Filling – The creamy cheesecake-style layer adds an extra level of indulgence that perfectly complements the light cake layers.

✔️ Naturally Sweetened with Fresh Strawberries – Unlike artificial flavors, this cake gets its natural strawberry taste from fresh strawberry puree and jam.

✔️ Gorgeous Presentation – Whether topped with whipped frosting, fresh strawberries, or a drizzle of strawberry sauce, this cake is a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.

✔️ Easy to Customize – You can make this cake with vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry cake layers, and adjust the sweetness and creaminess to fit your taste.

This strawberry cream cheese cake is the perfect mix of fresh, creamy, and indulgent, making it a great choice for any gathering. Now, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make it from scratch!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

To make this strawberry cream cheese cake, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and baking staples to ensure a moist, flavorful cake with a rich, creamy filling.

For the Cake Layers (Choose One Option)

You can make the cake from scratch or use a cake mix for convenience.

Option 1: Homemade Strawberry Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and keeps the cake soft.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise evenly.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Creates a light and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
• 4 large eggs – Provides structure and stability.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the strawberry flavor.
• ¾ cup fresh strawberry puree – Adds natural strawberry flavor and moisture.
• ½ cup sour cream – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• A few drops of red food coloring (optional) – For a vibrant strawberry color.

Option 2: Cake Mix Shortcut

• 1 box strawberry or vanilla cake mix
• 1 cup whole milk (instead of water for extra moisture)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (instead of oil for better flavor)
• 3 large eggs

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened – The base for a smooth, rich cheesecake layer.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with structure.
• 2 large eggs – Helps bind the filling together.
• ½ cup sour cream – Creates a creamy and tangy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Prevents the filling from being too runny.

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Helps create a smooth consistency.
• 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ½ cup fresh strawberry puree – Infuses natural strawberry flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste.

For the Strawberry Topping (Optional )

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced – The perfect finishing touch.
• ¼ cup strawberry jam or homemade strawberry sauce – Adds extra flavor and shine.

With these fresh, high-quality ingredients, your strawberry cream cheese cake will have the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making it from scratch!

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

Making this strawberry cream cheese cake involves three key components: the strawberry cake layers, the creamy cheesecake filling, and the strawberry cream cheese frosting. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a perfect, bakery-quality cake!

Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until fully combined and creamy.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and fresh strawberry puree until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix on low speed until combined.
3. Pour in strawberry puree and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.
4. If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top.
2. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the frosted cake layer.
3. Add the second strawberry cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
4. Frost the entire cake with the strawberry cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out with an offset spatula.

Step 5: Add the Strawberry Topping (Optional but Recommended)

1. Warm strawberry jam in the microwave for 10 seconds, then spread a thin layer on top of the cake.
2. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries for a beautiful finish.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
2. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade strawberry cream cheese cake!

Now that your cake is ready, let’s go over some pro tips and fun variations to make it even better!

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

Want to make sure your strawberry cream cheese cake turns out perfect every time? Follow these expert tips and fun variations to enhance the flavor, texture, and presentation of your cake!

✔️ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Let the butter, eggs, cream cheese, and sour cream sit at room temperature before using. This ensures smooth mixing and prevents lumps in the batter and frosting.

✔️ Chill the Cheesecake Layer Completely – For easier assembly, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours (or overnight). A cold cheesecake layer is easier to handle and won’t break when stacking.

✔️ Prevent a Dry Cake –

• Do not overmix the batter—stir just until ingredients are combined.
• Use fresh strawberry puree for natural moisture.
• Bake at the correct temperature and check for doneness with a toothpick.

✔️ Thicker Frosting for Sturdier Layers – If your strawberry cream cheese frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before frosting the cake. You can also add an extra ½ cup of powdered sugar to thicken it.

✔️ Make Ahead for Easy Assembly –

• Cake Layers: Bake them a day in advance, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate.
• Cheesecake Layer: Make it up to 2 days ahead and keep it chilled.
• Frosting: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and mix before using.

Fun Variations to Try

Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake – Use chocolate cake layers instead of vanilla for a rich chocolate-strawberry combination.

Lemon Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake – Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter and frosting for a fresh, citrusy twist.

Coconut Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake – Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical flavor.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Cupcakes – Turn this recipe into cupcakes by baking the batter in lined cupcake tins and topping each with cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberries.

Whipped Cream Frosting Alternative – If you prefer a lighter frosting, replace the cream cheese frosting with stabilized whipped cream for an airy, refreshing topping.

These pro tips and variations ensure that your strawberry cream cheese cake is delicious, versatile, and easy to customize. Now, let’s go over the best ways to serve and store this cake!

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cream cheese cake is a delicious and elegant dessert that deserves to be served in the best way possible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just enjoying a slice with coffee, here are some great ways to serve and store it for maximum freshness and flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

Chilled for the Best Texture – Since the cake contains cream cheese frosting and a cheesecake layer, it’s best served slightly chilled for the perfect creamy and moist consistency.

With Fresh Strawberries – Garnish each slice with fresh sliced strawberries or whole berries for a beautiful presentation and extra fruitiness.

Drizzled with Strawberry Sauce – Add a drizzle of homemade or store-bought strawberry sauce over each slice for an added burst of flavor.

Paired with Ice Cream – Serve with a scoop of vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent treat.

With a Cup of Coffee or Tea – The tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberry flavors pair beautifully with a hot cappuccino, latte, or chamomile tea.

With a Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for a gourmet twist.

How to Store Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake

Since this cake contains cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberries, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious.

• Refrigeration (Best Option) – Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
• Freezing (For Long-Term Storage) – Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Avoid Leaving at Room Temperature – Because of the dairy-based frosting, this cake should not be left out for more than 2 hours.

Make-Ahead Tips

✔️ Cake Layers – Bake the cake layers a day in advance, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
✔️ Cheesecake Layer – Prepare the cheesecake layer up to 2 days ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator.
✔️ Frosting – The cream cheese frosting can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it soften slightly before using.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure your strawberry cream cheese cake stays fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented every time! Now, let’s wrap up with a few final thoughts before answering common questions.

Conclusion

This strawberry cream cheese cake is the perfect combination of moist, fluffy cake layers, rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its gorgeous presentation and irresistible taste.

The creamy cheesecake layer adds an indulgent touch, while the strawberry-infused frosting ties everything together beautifully. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can easily create a bakery-quality dessert right at home.

Now that you have the full recipe, let’s go over some frequently asked questions to help you achieve perfect results every time!

FAQs