Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Layered Slice is a creamy, fruity dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, soft vanilla cake, and a glossy strawberry topping in every bite. It is an easy recipe for parties, spring gatherings, summer dessert tables, and sweet food ideas when you want a beautiful make-ahead treat that feels special without being difficult.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
3/4 cup strawberry preserves or strawberry glaze
1 cup whipped cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar until combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
3. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in 1/2 cup granulated sugar, sour cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the eggs just until creamy.
4. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. In another bowl, stir together the milk, vegetable oil, and remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
7. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to make a smooth vanilla cake batter.
8. Carefully spoon and spread the cake batter over the cream cheese layer.
9. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully chilled.
11. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the top, then spread the strawberry preserves or glaze gently across the surface.
12. Finish with whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
Do not try to slice the dessert before it is fully chilled, or the layers may look messy and soft instead of clean and defined.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: strawberry shortcake layered slice, strawberry dessert, easy recipe, make-ahead dessert, cheesecake bars, vanilla cake dessert, spring dessert, summer dessert, dessert bars, food ideas