Description
This Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert combining a creamy cheesecake base with a crunchy, flavorful strawberry topping. Perfect for any occasion, this showstopper will have your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla cookies, crushed)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or heavy cream)
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup golden Oreos (or shortbread cookies), crushed
- 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Decoration:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Optional: Mint leaves or white chocolate drizzle
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (if baking). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream (or heavy cream) until the batter is creamy and smooth.
- Pour the batter over the crust, smoothing the top.
3. Bake the Cheesecake (Optional):
- Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- In a bowl, combine crushed golden Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
5. Decorate and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant finish.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- No-Bake Option: If you prefer no-bake cheesecake, skip the baking step and refrigerate the filling for 6-8 hours until firm.
- Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance, making it a perfect dessert for parties or gatherings.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking/No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, crunchy cheesecake recipe, no-bake cheesecake, baked cheesecake, strawberry desserts