This Prince Edward Island Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake features a creamy vanilla cheesecake topped with sweet strawberries and whipped cream. A beautiful Canadian dessert inspired by PEI’s famous strawberry harvest.

This recipe is apart of our Great Canadian Series

Prince Edward Island is famous for its sweet, juicy strawberries, which thrive in the Island’s rich red soil and coastal climate. Every summer, locals and visitors eagerly await strawberry season, when fields across PEI are filled with some of the finest berries in the country.

This decadent cheesecake celebrates that tradition by combining a buttery graham cracker crust, silky vanilla cheesecake filling, homemade strawberry topping, and fluffy whipped cream inspired by a classic strawberry shortcake.

The result is a stunning dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, family celebrations, and anyone who loves strawberries and cheesecake.

At Canadian Cooking Adventures, we’re proud to showcase Canada’s regional flavors, and this Prince Edward Island-inspired dessert is one of the sweetest ways to experience the Island.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Loaded with fresh strawberries
• Rich and creamy cheesecake filling
• Inspired by PEI’s famous strawberry farms
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Beautiful presentation
• Great for summer entertaining
• Combines strawberry shortcake and cheesecake in one dessert

What Makes PEI Strawberries Special?

Prince Edward Island strawberries are known for their exceptional sweetness, vibrant color, and incredible flavor.

The Island’s unique red soil and maritime climate help produce berries that are prized throughout Atlantic Canada. Every summer, PEI strawberries become the star ingredient in countless desserts, jams, pies, and family recipes.

This cheesecake celebrates one of the province’s most iconic harvests.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

Strawberry Topping

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare The Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake for 8 minutes.

Allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Make The Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese until smooth.

Add sugar and mix until creamy.

Beat in eggs one at a time.

Mix in vanilla and sour cream.

Pour into the prepared crust.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until the center is almost set.

Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly.

Allow cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Prepare The Strawberry Topping

In a saucepan combine:

• Strawberries
• Sugar
• Lemon juice

Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes.

Stir in the cornstarch mixture.

Cook until slightly thickened.

Allow to cool completely.

Step 5: Make The Whipped Cream

Beat the whipping cream, icing sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Transfer to a piping bag if desired.

Step 6: Assemble

Spread the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake.

Pipe whipped cream around the edges.

Garnish with fresh strawberries.

Chill until ready to serve.

Tips For The Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake

Use Fresh PEI Strawberries

When in season, fresh PEI strawberries provide the best flavor.

Chill Overnight

The cheesecake slices more cleanly and develops a richer flavor.

Don’t Overmix

Overmixing can introduce excess air and cause cracks.

Add Extra Strawberries

Fresh strawberries on top create a beautiful bakery-style presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?

Yes. Frozen strawberries work well for the topping, although fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and appearance.

Can I Make This Ahead?

Absolutely. Cheesecake is best made a day in advance.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes. Freeze the cheesecake without the whipped cream topping for up to 3 months.

What Makes This A Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake?

The combination of creamy cheesecake, strawberries, graham crust, and whipped cream creates the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in cheesecake form.

A Sweet Taste Of Prince Edward Island

This Prince Edward Island Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake showcases one of the Island’s most famous ingredients in a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its creamy filling, sweet strawberry topping, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

Whether you’re celebrating strawberry season or exploring Canadian regional cuisine, this cheesecake is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Try serving with Cheesy PEI Lobster Potato Bake alongside for dinner

From our kitchen to yours, happy baking from Canadian Cooking Adventures! 🍓🍰🍁