Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream.
   • Pour the cheesecake batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan (or the same pan used for the cake, lined with parchment paper).
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results).
3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
   • In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice (optional). Stir gently and let sit for 20-30 minutes to macerate and release the juices.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once all layers are cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter.
   • Spread a generous layer of cheesecake on top of the cake layer.
   • Top with the second cake layer.
   • Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
   • Decorate with macerated strawberries and any extra strawberry juice on top.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Chill the assembled cake for 1-2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
   • Slice and enjoy the creamy, fruity indulgence!

This Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake Cake will be the star of any gathering—layered with a soft cake, rich cheesecake, and topped with sweet strawberries and whipped cream! 🍓✨