This strawberry cream cheese cake is the ultimate blend of fruity freshness and creamy indulgence. Featuring a soft sponge base, a rich cream cheese layer, and a vibrant homemade strawberry jam, this dessert offers beautiful layers of texture and flavor. It’s the perfect centerpiece for brunches, summer gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself to something special.
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 80g (0.4 cup) sugar
- 100g (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 100ml (2/5 cup) milk
- 200g (1.2 cups) flour
- 12g (1.5 tsp) baking powder
- 28 cm baking pan
For the Jam:
- 300g (2 cups) strawberries, chopped
- 50g (1/4 cup) sugar
- 10g (1 tbsp) cornstarch
- 30ml (2 tbsp) water
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 160g (2/3 cup) cream cheese
- 1 egg
- 16g (2 tsp) vanilla sugar
- 30g (2 tbsp) sugar
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Strawberry Jam: In a small saucepan, combine strawberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the fruit softens and releases juice. Dissolve cornstarch in water, then add it to the pan. Cook until the jam thickens. Let it cool.
2. Make the Dough Base: In a bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and sugar until pale. Add vegetable oil and milk, mixing well. Sift in the flour and baking powder. Stir until smooth.
3. Make the Cheese Layer: In another bowl, mix cream cheese, egg, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar until creamy and lump-free.
4. Assemble the Cake: Grease a 28 cm baking pan. Pour in the dough. Spoon the cheese mixture over the top and gently spread. Finally, spoon cooled strawberry jam in patches or swirls.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 180℃ (356℉). Bake the cake for about 50 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool completely before slicing. Serve alone or with whipped cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 12 servings)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Sugar: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Eastern European fruit and cheese pastries. Variations of cream cheese and jam-based cakes are beloved across Central and Eastern Europe, where seasonal berries are a staple in dessert making. The soft sponge base and rich cheese layer mirror these regional favorites, now adapted for modern kitchens.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Simple ingredients
- Visually stunning with vibrant layers
- Great make-ahead dessert
- A perfect balance of sweet and tart
- Versatile with other fruits
Health Benefits
- Strawberries provide vitamin C and antioxidants
- Cream cheese offers calcium and healthy fats
- Lower in processed ingredients than store-bought options
- A lighter alternative to butter-laden cheesecakes
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Pair with fresh mint or sliced strawberries
- Serve with tea or coffee
- Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter – makes it dense
- Adding hot jam – always let it cool
- Overbaking – check at 45 minutes
- Using low-fat cream cheese – may not set well
Pairing Recommendations
- Earl Grey or chamomile tea
- Sparkling lemonade
- Light white wines like Riesling
Cooking Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing
- Chill the jam overnight for richer flavor
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking
- Blend the jam for a smoother texture
Similar Recipes to Try
- Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars
- Cherry Clafoutis
- Raspberry Ricotta Cake
- Lemon Yogurt Bundt Cake
Variations to Try
- Swap strawberries with blueberries or raspberries
- Add lemon zest to the dough for brightness
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of sponge base
- Top with streusel for crunch
Ingredient Spotlight: Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a soft, mild cheese known for its creamy consistency and tangy flavor. It’s perfect in both sweet and savory dishes and forms the luscious middle layer in this cake. Rich in calcium and fats, it also provides a satiny mouthfeel that enhances baked goods.
Conclusion
This strawberry cream cheese cake is a joy to bake and an even greater joy to eat. Whether you’re celebrating summer or simply treating yourself, this layered dessert brings together freshness, richness, and a touch of nostalgia. Bake it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
Use regular sugar with 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser.
4. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta can work, but will change the flavor.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
6. How do I know when it’s done?
Insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
7. Can I prepare it the day before?
Absolutely. Store in the fridge and bring to room temp before serving.
8. How do I store leftovers?
In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
9. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, slice and freeze individually for best results.
10. What can I add for a twist?
Try chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of lemon curd.