Strawberry crunch cheesecake Shortcake

### Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Shortcake

#### Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Layer:

- 8 oz cream cheese, softened

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)

For the Strawberry Layer:

- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

- 2 tbsp granulated sugar

- 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Crunch Topping:

- 1 cup crushed graham crackers

- 1/2 cup powdered sugar

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional)

For the Shortcake Base:

- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1 tbsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

#### Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Layer:

- In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss to coat and let sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.

3. Prepare the Crunch Topping:

- In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, powdered sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. If using, add crushed freeze-dried strawberries for extra flavor.

4. Bake the Shortcake Base:

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined.

- Spread the mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

5. Assemble the Shortcake:

- Once the shortcake base is cool, slice it in half horizontally. Place one half on a serving platter.

- Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the bottom layer, followed by half of the macerated strawberries. Top with the second half of the shortcake.

- Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture on top and then layer with the remaining strawberries.

- Finish by sprinkling the crunch topping over the strawberries.

6. Serve:

- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Slice and enjoy your Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Shortcake!

### Tips:

- You can substitute the fresh strawberries with other berries if desired.

- For added flavor, consider drizzling some strawberry sauce over the top before serving. Enjoy!

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