Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy golden Oreo topping. Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, this dessert is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. With layers of velvety cheesecake filling and a crispy strawberry crunch, it’s perfect for celebrations, summer gatherings, or simply indulging in a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry puree or jam
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Golden Oreos
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Place in the freezer for 20 minutes to set. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Divide the filling in half. Mix the strawberry puree or jam into one half of the filling to create a strawberry layer. - Assemble the Cheesecake:
Spread the plain cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled crust. Spread the strawberry cheesecake layer on top of the plain layer. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm. - Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
In a bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed. - Add the Crunch Topping:
Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the cheesecake. - Serve:
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for the Best Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and premium cream cheese enhance the flavor.
- Chill Properly: Allow enough time for the cheesecake to set for a firm, creamy texture.
- Customize the Crunch Topping: Try adding crushed vanilla sandwich cookies for extra texture.
- Make It No-Bake: Skip baking the crust and use a fully chilled version for an easy no-bake alternative.
This Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines creamy indulgence with a satisfying crunch. Enjoy! 🍓🍰
For more inspiration, check out this recipe.