There’s nothing like the sweet and creamy delight of Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake. With a crunchy topping inspired by the classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, this dessert is a showstopper that’s perfect for any celebration or casual weekend treat. [IMAGE] The combination of a smooth, rich cheesecake with a fresh strawberry flavor and that unforgettable strawberry crunch is something everyone will love.

I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate my favorite ice cream bar from childhood, and it’s been a huge hit ever since! Let’s dive into why this is bound to be a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite dessert! This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is more than just a treat – it’s an experience.
First, it’s absolutely gorgeous. With vibrant layers of creamy cheesecake and bright red strawberry crunch topping, it’s a dessert that impresses visually as much as it does in flavor.
It’s also surprisingly easy to make! Even if you’re not a baking pro, this cheesecake comes together in simple steps, making it a breeze for any skill level.
Not to mention, the combination of flavors and textures is pure magic. The rich, smooth cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the buttery, slightly salty crust and the sweet, crunchy strawberry topping.
Finally, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just indulging in a weekend treat, this cheesecake is sure to be the star of the show.
Ingredients Notes

The secret to a fantastic Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake lies in the ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to enhance the flavor and texture of this delicious dessert.
- Cream Cheese: The base of any cheesecake, cream cheese brings that rich, creamy texture we all love. Make sure it’s at room temperature so it blends smoothly without any lumps.
- Sugar: A touch of sugar sweetens the filling without overpowering the other flavors. You’ll use it in both the filling and the crunchy topping for that perfect balance.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen – just be sure to thaw and drain them first.
- Golden Oreos: These cookies form the base of the crunch topping. Their sweet, vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with strawberries and gives the topping that recognizable crunch.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Crushed freeze-dried strawberries are mixed with the Golden Oreos to create that signature strawberry crunch. They add a concentrated burst of strawberry flavor and a gorgeous color to the topping.
You’ll also need a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake after baking. Make sure it’s well-greased or lined with parchment paper for the cleanest release.
How to Make This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

Making this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is simpler than you might expect. Let’s go step-by-step to ensure you get the best results.
- Prepare the Crust: Begin by crushing Golden Oreos into fine crumbs and combining them with melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of your greased springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes to set it, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by a splash of vanilla extract. For extra strawberry flavor, fold in finely diced strawberries or a few tablespoons of strawberry puree.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Place the pan in a water bath to prevent cracks, and bake at 325°F for about 1 hour, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool with the door cracked open to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake reaches room temperature, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for the best texture and flavor.
- Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping: In a food processor, pulse Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until you get a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this strawberry crunch topping generously over the chilled cheesecake, pressing it down gently so it adheres.
With that, your Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is ready to serve! Enjoy each bite of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and crunchy topping.
Storage Options
This cheesecake stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
- In the Fridge: Cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you’d like to keep it longer, slice the cheesecake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months frozen.
To enjoy, let frozen slices thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. This ensures the texture stays smooth and creamy.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best parts of this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is how versatile it can be. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Chocolate Strawberry Crunch: Add a layer of melted chocolate between the cheesecake and the strawberry topping, or use chocolate Golden Oreos in the crust.
- Berry Medley Crunch: Substitute some freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries in the crunch topping for a mixed berry effect.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace the sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol, and opt for low-sugar Golden Oreos if available.
- Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake: Mix in strawberry puree directly into the cheesecake batter for a fun swirl effect before baking.
Experiment with these ideas to make the cheesecake your own!
PrintStrawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe features layers of creamy cheesecake with a delicious strawberry crunch topping, ideal for celebrations or a special dessert. Made with fresh ingredients, it combines a sweet strawberry flavor with a buttery, crunchy topping that is irresistible.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed Golden Oreos or vanilla wafer cookies
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 3 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup strawberry puree or strawberry jam
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Optional: crushed freeze-dried strawberries for extra topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix crushed cookies and melted butter until combined. Press into a springform pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time. Pour over crust.
- Bake and Cool: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until set. Cool completely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Add Crunch Topping: Just before serving, spread whipped cream on top, then sprinkle with crushed cookies and freeze-dried strawberries if using.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
- For a firmer cheesecake, refrigerate overnight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320mg
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