Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the vibrant, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping. This decadent dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and texture, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a special occasion or simply treat yourself, this cheesecake will surely satisfy your cravings.

With its striking layers, the strawberry topping and the crunch give a refreshing contrast to the smooth and velvety cheesecake filling. This recipe is simple enough to create at home, yet elegant enough for any celebration. Whether you serve it as a centerpiece for a holiday dinner or bring it to a potluck, Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet, tangy strawberry topping complements the rich, creamy cheesecake filling perfectly. The crunchy, buttery crumble adds texture and flavor, creating a balance that appeals to the taste buds.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: The layers of strawberry sauce, creamy cheesecake, and the crunchy topping make this dessert a visual masterpiece. It’s not only delicious but also beautiful, making it perfect for any celebration.
• Creamy and Smooth Texture: The cheesecake filling is smooth, rich, and creamy, melting in your mouth with every bite. The contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy topping is simply irresistible.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or casual get-together, Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that can be served at almost any event.
• Easy to Make: While this cheesecake looks sophisticated, it’s quite easy to make and doesn’t require any special techniques or equipment.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12-14 slices
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per slice, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20-25g

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Strawberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Crunch Topping:

• 1 ½ cups Golden Oreos, crushed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Special Equipment

To ensure a smooth and successful baking process, a few key tools will help you along the way:

1. Springform Pan: A springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without damaging the crust. Its removable sides also allow for a clean presentation.
2. Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is essential for beating the cream cheese and sugar together, achieving a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
3. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few mixing bowls for combining the crust ingredients, the filling, and the strawberry topping.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential in any recipe, especially when making cheesecake, where proportions are key.
5. Spatula: A rubber spatula is ideal for folding in ingredients and scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
6. Food Processor or Rolling Pin: For crushing the graham crackers or Oreos into fine crumbs, a food processor is the easiest option. Alternatively, you can use a rolling pin to crush them in a plastic bag.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Start by making the crust. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and the crumbs are well-coated with butter.

Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s even. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press the crumbs down tightly. This will create a solid foundation for the cheesecake.

Once pressed, bake the crust in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes. This will set the crust and give it a slight golden color. After baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After all the eggs are incorporated, add the sour cream and flour. Mix until the batter is smooth and there are no lumps. The flour will help stabilize the cheesecake as it bakes.

Once the cheesecake filling is smooth, pour it into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is slightly jiggly. You can test it by gently tapping the side of the pan—it should move slightly but not ripple in the center.

Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracking by gradually cooling the cheesecake.

After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the strawberry topping. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and begin to soften, about 10 minutes.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and add it to the strawberries. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Once cooled, refrigerate the strawberry topping until you’re ready to serve.

5. Make the Crunch Topping

To make the crunch topping, crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

6. Assemble the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has chilled and the toppings are prepared, it’s time to assemble the dessert. Spread the strawberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Make sure the strawberry mixture covers the entire surface of the cheesecake, allowing the sweet, tangy flavor to shine.

Next, sprinkle the Oreo crunch mixture over the top of the strawberries. The crunch topping will add texture and a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries.

7. Serve the Cheesecake

To serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Slice and enjoy the creamy, fruity, and crunchy layers. The cheesecake should be firm but creamy, with a beautiful contrast of textures from the strawberry topping and crunchy Oreo crumble.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

• Ensure Cream Cheese is Softened: For the smoothest cheesecake filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps in the batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Filling: Overmixing the filling can incorporate too much air, which may cause the cheesecake to crack. Mix until just combined and smooth.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracks. Once it’s removed, continue cooling at room temperature before refrigerating.
• Let it Chill: Chilling the cheesecake is essential for setting the filling. Make sure to refrigerate it for several hours or overnight for the best results.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give the best flavor and texture for the topping. If you’re using frozen strawberries, ensure they’re well-drained before cooking them down.

Variations of Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

• Mixed Berry Crunch Cheesecake: Replace the strawberries with a mixture of fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. The tartness of the berries will pair wonderfully with the sweet cheesecake.
• Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake: Add a layer of melted chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake before the strawberry topping for an indulgent chocolate-strawberry combination.
• Nut-Crunch Cheesecake: Replace the Golden Oreos with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a different crunch element. This variation will add a savory contrast to the sweet filling.
• No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake: For a no-bake version, skip the oven step for the cheesecake filling. Instead, use a no-bake cheesecake mixture and chill for several hours before topping with the strawberry mixture and crunch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store leftover Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

Enhance your cheesecake experience with some delicious pairings:

• Fresh Fruit: Serve the cheesecake with additional fresh strawberries or other berries for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy cheesecake.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing hint of flavor when placed on top of each slice of cheesecake.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the richness of cheesecake, and the crunch of a buttery topping. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a delicious treat, this cheesecake will quickly become a favorite. With its easy-to-follow steps and versatile variations, you’ll be able to create a dessert that impresses every time. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this delightful treat!