If you're looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of a strawberry crunch ice cream bar, the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is your answer. This delightful dessert features layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy topping that brings it all together. Perfect for any celebration or just because, this cheesecake will wow your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let's get into the step-by-step process of making this delicious treat.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Strawberry Layer:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Golden Oreos
- 1 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- ¼ cup melted butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Let the strawberry mixture cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Make the Crunch Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter.
- Mix until the ingredients are well coated and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crunch topping evenly over the strawberry layer on the cheesecake.
Cooking Note:
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beginning to avoid lumps in the filling.
- When baking the cheesecake, you can use a water bath to prevent cracks by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream.
- For a decorative touch, drizzle with white chocolate or a strawberry sauce.
Tips:
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a layer of strawberry preserves between the cheesecake filling and the strawberry layer.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice the cheesecake cleanly.
- Freeze-dried strawberries can be found in the dried fruit section of most grocery stores.
Prep Time:
- 30 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 6 hours (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
Conclusion
The Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake and the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries with a satisfying crunch. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself. With its beautiful presentation and irresistible taste, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dessert with your loved ones!
PrintStrawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, featuring a creamy cheesecake filling with a delightful strawberry crunch topping. The combination of a smooth, rich cheesecake base and a crispy strawberry-flavored topping makes this dessert irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry gelatin mix
- Shortbread cookies
- Freeze-dried strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely.
- Crush shortbread cookies and freeze-dried strawberries together, then mix with strawberry gelatin mix to create the crunch topping.
- Spread a layer of fresh strawberries over the cooled cheesecake.
- Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the strawberries.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a layer of strawberry preserves between the cheesecake and fresh strawberries.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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