Indulge in a dessert that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake with a satisfying crunchy topping. Our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delicious treat featuring a smooth, tangy cheesecake base, fresh strawberries, and a crispy, buttery crunch that adds texture and flavor. This recipe is ideal for parties, family gatherings, or as an everyday indulgence.
How to Make this Cheesecake
Creating this strawberry crunch cheesecake involves preparing a rich cheesecake filling, layering it on a buttery graham cracker crust, and topping it with fresh strawberries and a crunchy, sweet topping. The process is straightforward: bake the crust, blend and bake the cheesecake filling, and finish with a vibrant strawberry crunch topping.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1/2 cup crunchy granola or crushed graham crackers
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves(for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and flour. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still jiggle slightly). Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping: In a small bowl, combine chopped strawberries, strawberry jam, granola (or crushed graham crackers), and honey. Stir gently to mix the flavors.
- Serve: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the cheesecake. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled in individual slices for a refreshing dessert.
- Top each slice with extra fresh strawberries for a burst of color.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Present on a decorative dessert platter at parties.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
Tips and Variations
- Extra Crunch: Increase the granola or crushed graham crackers in the topping for a crunchier texture.
- Fruit Variations: Experiment by adding blueberries or raspberries to the topping.
- Flavor Boost: Mix a pinch of cinnamon into the crust or topping for a warm spice note.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the filling if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
- No-Bake Option: For a no-bake version, use whipped cream and condensed milk to create a chilled cheesecake filling.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Serving Size: Serves 8
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugars: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
Ingredient Substitutes
- Cream Cheese: Use Neufchatel cheese for a lower-fat version.
- Sour Cream: Substitute with Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer crumbs as an alternative.
- Granola: Replace with crushed cornflakes for a different crunch.
- Strawberry Jam: Use fresh strawberry puree or a light drizzle of honey if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance. It tastes even better after the flavors have melded overnight.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake?
Bake the cheesecake in a water bath and avoid overbaking to keep it smooth and crack-free.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What if I don’t have an oven?
Consider making a no-bake cheesecake version using whipped cream, cream cheese, and condensed milk, though the texture will differ slightly.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
You can reduce the sugar in the filling and use unsweetened fruit preserves in the topping if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that marries the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake with a satisfying, crunchy topping of strawberries and granola. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these stuffed cookies will surely impress.
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and flour. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
Bake the Cheesecake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still jiggle slightly). Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping
In a small bowl, combine chopped strawberries, strawberry jam, granola (or crushed graham crackers), and honey. Stir gently to mix the flavors.
Serve
Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the cheesecake. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves, if desired.
