Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

A creamy strawberry cheesecake topped with a buttery crunch crumble for the ultimate dessert indulgence. This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake dessert combines the richness of cheesecake with a delightful strawberry flavor and a satisfying crunch topping, making it a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines creamy and crunchy textures for a perfect bite.

The strawberry flavor is fresh, fruity, and not overly sweet.

Beautifully layered, making it a show-stopping dessert for gatherings.

Straightforward recipe with simple ingredients.

Easily customizable for various preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup sour cream

2 large eggs

1/2 cup strawberry puree

For the strawberry crunch topping:

1 cup freeze-dried strawberries

1 cup vanilla wafer cookies

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Prepare the crust:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl until combined.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Make the filling:

Beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth.

Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Blend in the sour cream, then add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.

Gently fold in the strawberry puree. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.

Bake the cheesecake:

Bake the cheesecake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.

Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Prepare the strawberry crunch topping:

Pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafer cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form.

Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined.

Assemble and chill:

Spread the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)

Variations

Berry Mix: Substitute half of the strawberry puree with raspberry or blueberry puree for a mixed berry flavor.

Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache over the cheesecake before topping it with the crunch.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and vanilla wafers for a gluten-free dessert.

Lighter Option: Replace full-fat cream cheese and sour cream with reduced-fat versions.

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the crunch topping for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover the cheesecake tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

Related Recipes:

• Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
• Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies
• Caramel Crunch Cake

FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To avoid cracks, cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door slightly open, and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It needs at least 4 hours to chill, so preparing it the day before is ideal.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried ones?

Freeze-dried strawberries are recommended for the topping because they provide the crunch, but you can use fresh strawberries for garnish.

What can I do if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep-dish pie pan, but you’ll need to adjust the crust and filling amounts to fit. Removing the cheesecake might be more challenging.

Can I replace the strawberry puree with another fruit?

Absolutely! Mango, raspberry, or blueberry puree are great substitutes for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that combines creamy layers with a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delightful indulgence. With its vibrant strawberry flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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