Thank you so much for joining me today, because this recipe? It’s everything. Rich, creamy, fruity, crunchy, and over-the-top delicious, this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is pure dessert magic. 💕 Whether you’re baking for a birthday, brunch, or just craving something beautiful and berry-loaded, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
We’re talking about a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth strawberry-infused cheesecake filling, a jammy fresh strawberry topping, and that signature crunchy strawberry shortcake-style crumble on top. 🍓✨
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🍓 What Is Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake?
This cheesecake is inspired by that nostalgic Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake bar—you know the one. We’re bringing that iconic vanilla-strawberry crunch into cheesecake form, layering it over a silky strawberry cheesecake and fresh strawberry topping.
Every bite hits the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, buttery, and crisp. It’s one of those desserts that looks like a bakery masterpiece—but comes together surprisingly easily in your own kitchen!
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Three dreamy layers of flavor and texture
- ✅ Bright strawberry flavor with real fruit
- ✅ Crunch topping that tastes just like childhood
- ✅ Make-ahead friendly – chills beautifully overnight
- ✅ Perfect for spring, summer, or any celebration
🍰 What Does It Taste Like?
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a flavor party:
- The crust is buttery and sweet with graham cracker goodness.
- The cheesecake is creamy and smooth with subtle strawberry and vanilla flavor.
- The strawberry topping adds bright, jammy bursts of fruit.
- And the crunch topping? Oh my word. It’s sweet, crispy, and just the right amount of nostalgic.
Think strawberry shortcake meets New York-style cheesecake. 💘
🧾 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup strawberry purée (blend fresh or frozen strawberries)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: A few drops of pink or red food coloring
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup vanilla sandwich cookies (like Golden Oreos), crushed
- ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tbsp melted butter
🛠 Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand or stand mixer
- Saucepan
- Food processor or rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool while you make the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in sour cream, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in the strawberry purée, vanilla, and food coloring (if using).
- Pour filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside.
- Remove and let cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 5–7 min).
- Let the mixture cool completely before using.
Step 5: Make the Crunch Topping
- In a bowl, mix crushed vanilla sandwich cookies and crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
- Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and sandy.
🎉 Assemble the Cheesecake
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the crunch topping generously over the strawberry layer.
- Slice, serve, and prepare for compliments! 💁♀️
💡 Tips & Serving Ideas
- Use parchment paper on the bottom of your springform pan for easy release.
- Don’t skip the chill time—overnight is best for perfect slices.
- Top with whipped cream or extra strawberries if you’re feeling fancy.
- Great make-ahead dessert—lasts beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Want even more crunch? Sprinkle extra topping on each slice before serving!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze slices individually—wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
FAQs About Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Can I use frozen strawberries for the purée?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and blend until smooth.
What can I use instead of sandwich cookies?
Try vanilla wafers, shortbread, or even graham crackers for a twist.
Do I have to bake the crust?
It helps it set better, but if you’re short on time, a no-bake crust will still work (chill it for 30 min before adding filling).
Can I make this in a 9×13 pan?
Yes, just reduce baking time slightly and expect thinner layers.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is the perfect combination of decadent and playful—a little nostalgic, a little gourmet, and all kinds of delicious. With its vibrant pink filling, juicy fruit topping, and that signature cookie crunch, it’s guaranteed to become your go-to strawberry dessert for special occasions.
It’s the kind of treat that makes people think you bought it from a bakery… until you proudly say, “I made it myself.” 😉
More Desserts You’ll Love
- 🍓 Strawberry Angel Cake
- 🧁 Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes
- 🍰 No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Bars
- 🎂 Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with Berry Swirl
Show Me Your Crunch! 📸
Made this dreamy cheesecake? I need to see it!
Leave a review, pin it to Pinterest, or tag it on Instagram with #MmmRecipes so we can all admire your berry-filled masterpiece.
Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approx. Based on 12 Servings)
- Calories: ~420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 36g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 5g
Vegetarian | Contains Dairy, Gluten, Eggs
