Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together all the best elements of a classic strawberry crunch ice cream bar in luscious cheesecake form. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble—no baking beyond the crust—and how each layer delivers a burst of texture and flavor. It’s perfect for potlucks, summer parties, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes.

ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed

For the Strawberry Topping:
1 ½ cups strawberry pie filling

For the Crunch Topping:
1 cup golden Oreos, crushed
½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.

2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form the crust.

3. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool completely.

4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

5. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated.

6. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

7. Spoon the strawberry pie filling over the cheesecake layer and spread it evenly.

8. In a small bowl, mix crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter to make the crunch topping.

9. Sprinkle the crunch mixture evenly over the strawberry topping.

10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 28 minutes
Calories: 330 kcal per serving

Variations

• No-Bake Option: Skip baking the crust and press it straight into the dish for an entirely no-bake version.

• Berry Mix: Try using a mix of berry pie fillings for a twist on the traditional strawberry flavor.

• Individual Servings: Make in muffin tins for perfectly portioned mini cheesecakes.

• Chocolate Twist: Swap the graham crackers for chocolate cookie crumbs in the crust.

• Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. This cheesecake is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How long should I chill the cheesecake before serving?

It needs to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, homemade whipped cream works well, just ensure it’s stabilized for best results.

Can I use a different cookie for the crunch topping?

Absolutely! Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies are great alternatives to golden Oreos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers and cookies to make this recipe gluten-free.

How do I crush the Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries?

You can use a food processor or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.

What if I don't have strawberry pie filling?

You can substitute with fresh macerated strawberries or another berry pie filling.

Can I prepare this cheesecake in advance?

Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Is it okay to freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze it in slices for up to a month, just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

You can, but you might want to sweeten and thicken them slightly for a similar texture.

Do I have to bake the crust?

Baking helps the crust set better, but you can skip this step for a no-bake version.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures that makes it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you're making it for a party or a special treat at home, it’s sure to be a hit. Try out the variations, get creative with toppings, and enjoy every sweet bite.