1. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your chosen cake mix.
2. Prepare the white or strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions, pour the batter into a prepared baking dish, and bake.
3. Allow the baked cake layer to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling.
4. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
5. Add vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
6. Mix in eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
7. Gently fold in heavy whipping cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture into a springform pan if making a baked cheesecake and bake as directed.
9. Chill the baked cheesecake layer in the refrigerator for at least 4-5 hours or overnight to firm up.
10. Place the cooled cake layer on a serving platter.
11. Gently add the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the cake layer, ensuring it is centered.
12. Spread whipped cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
13. Prepare the strawberry filling by mixing sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook the mixture if needed until it thickens.
14. Spread the strawberry filling over the cream cheese frosting.
15. Sprinkle strawberry crunch topping (made with freeze-dried strawberries, Golden Oreos, and melted butter) on top for added texture.
16. Garnish the assembled cheesecake with fresh strawberries for a colorful and fresh finish.
17. Chill the fully assembled dessert for an additional 1-2 hours to set the layers before serving.
18. Slice the cheesecake with a warm knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
19. Enjoy this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake as a show-stopping treat for any occasion.