Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cake

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Beat 16 oz cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract until blended. Pour into a springform pan lined with parchment paper and bake for 35–40 minutes until set. Cool completely and freeze for at least 2 hours. 🧊
2. Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together the strawberry cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, and 3 eggs until combined. Divide evenly between two greased 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans and bake for 25–28 minutes. Cool layers completely. 🎂
3. Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream until silky and spreadable. 🥣
4. Assemble the Cake Layers: Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top. Carefully unwrap the chilled cheesecake layer and place it directly on top of the first cake layer. Spread another thin layer of frosting, then top with the second strawberry cake layer. 🥞
5. Frost & Coat in Crunch: Frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly with the remaining cream cheese frosting. Gently press the strawberry shortcake crumbs all over the sides and edges of the cake until completely covered! 🍓✨
6. Garnish & Serve: Pipe swirls of leftover frosting on top of the cake. Decorate with fresh strawberry halves and vanilla sandwich cookies. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour before slicing to get perfect, clean layers! 🍽️✨