Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries. Topped with a crunchy layer of Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries, this cheesecake is not only beautiful but also incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations.
Why Make This Recipe
If you love strawberries and cheesecake, this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a must-try! It’s a great way to impress your friends and family with a dessert that looks fancy but is simple to make. Plus, the combination of creaminess, crunchiness, and fruity flavors makes every bite exciting. It’s perfect for spring and summer when strawberries are at their best!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake it for 10 minutes. Let it cool.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, folding in the diced strawberries last.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and bake it in a water bath for 50–60 minutes or until the center is just set. Turn off the oven and let it cool with the door ajar for 1 hour. After that, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours.
- Combine crushed Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and whipped cream if desired. Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake chilled. You can slice it into wedges and place it on individual plates. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh strawberry slices on top for an extra special touch.
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Keep it in the springform pan or transfer it to an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available.
- Be careful when baking in a water bath, as it helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
Variation
You can customize this cheesecake by adding other fruits, like blueberries or raspberries. You can also swap the Golden Oreos for chocolate cookies for a different flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought crust instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust. Just skip the first step of making the crust.
2. What is a water bath, and why do I need it?
A water bath is a method of baking that helps create a moist environment for the cheesecake, preventing it from cracking. To do this, wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water during baking.
3. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is great for make-ahead desserts. It needs at least 4 hours to chill, so you can make it a day in advance to save time on the day of your event.
