Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake – A Sweet, Creamy, and Irresistible Dessert
Cheesecake lovers know that the best desserts aren’t just about taste—they’re about texture, presentation, and that first “wow” moment when you take a bite. Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake delivers all of that and more. Combining a velvety cream cheese filling with a buttery crust, topped off with a crunchy strawberry layer, this dessert is the perfect marriage of smooth and crispy.
What makes this cheesecake so special is the nostalgic strawberry crunch topping, reminiscent of classic ice cream bars that many grew up loving. Sweet strawberries paired with the richness of cheesecake create a dessert that’s not only beautiful to look at but also utterly addictive to eat. Each slice brings the creamy tang of cheesecake, the freshness of strawberries, and the irresistible crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | 2 cups | 800 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ cup (1 stick) | 800 |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 24 oz (3 blocks) | 2,400 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 775 |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | 480 |
| Large eggs | 3 | 210 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | 24 |
| Fresh strawberries | 2 cups | 100 |
| Golden Oreos (crushed) | 20 cookies | 1,050 |
| Freeze-dried strawberries | 1 cup | 120 |
| Whipped cream (optional) | For garnish | ~100 per serving |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cheesecake smooth.
3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour filling over the prepared crust.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with about 1 inch of hot water (water bath method).
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- Crush Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries together into small crumbs.
- Mix with 2–3 tablespoons of melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle generously over the chilled cheesecake.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
- Slice and enjoy your bakery-worthy Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Extra flavor: Drizzle strawberry syrup over the top for more sweetness.
- Different crust: Swap graham crackers with Golden Oreos for a sweeter, cookie-based crust.
- Mini cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for bite-sized party desserts.
- Light version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cream cheese.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420–460 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a chilled glass of rosé or champagne for a festive celebration.
- Serve with fresh strawberry slices on each plate for a fresh touch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or drizzle of white chocolate for extra decadence.
- Perfect centerpiece dessert for birthdays, bridal showers, or summer barbecues.
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake – A Sweet, Creamy, and Irresistible Dessert
Course: Uncategorized12
servings25
minutes1
hour420-460
kcalIngredients
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
1 cup golden Oreos, crushed
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For Garnish:
Fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
Whipped cream (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour.
- Pour over cooled crust.
- Bake the cheesecake
- Place the pan in a water bath and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55–60 minutes, until the center is almost set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let it cool gradually for 1 hour.
- Chill
- Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the crunch topping
- Mix crushed Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Assemble and serve
- Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream before slicing.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For best results, make this cheesecake a day ahead to allow plenty of chilling time—this gives it the perfect creamy texture. Always add the strawberry crunch topping just before serving to keep it crisp and flavorful.
FAQs
1. Can I make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes best when made a day ahead. The cheesecake has time to fully chill, set, and develop deeper flavor. Just add the crunch topping before serving to keep it crisp.
Q2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh strawberries work best for garnish and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid on top of the cheesecake.
3. How long does Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap (without the topping) and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the crunch topping before serving.
5. How do I keep my cheesecake from cracking?
Use a water bath when baking, avoid overmixing the batter, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before chilling.
6. Can I make mini versions of this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Bake the cheesecake in muffin tins with cupcake liners for individual servings. Just reduce baking time to about 18–20 minutes.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. With its creamy base, fruity sweetness, and nostalgic crunchy topping, it’s the kind of treat that draws attention and leaves lasting memories. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday table, a family celebration, or just to satisfy your cheesecake craving, this recipe brings together comfort, elegance, and irresistible flavor in every bite.
