Very Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Slice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert offers the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures. The strawberry-flavored cheesecake filling is smooth and rich, while the topping adds a delightful crunch. The golden Oreo crust adds a touch of sweetness, making each bite a treat. The bright pink color makes it visually stunning, and the combination of flavors is both fresh and indulgent. It's the ideal dessert for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you're craving something sweet and fruity.

Ingredients

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

For the crust:

• 2 cups crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafer cookies

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup strawberry puree or strawberry jam

• 2-3 drops pink food coloring (optional)

For the strawberry crunch topping:

• 1 cup crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafer cookies

• ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

• 3 tablespoon melted butter

• 2-3 drops pink food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, strawberry puree, and pink food coloring (if using).

4. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. In a bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, melted butter, and pink food coloring (if using) until it resembles coarse crumbs.

6. Once fully chilled, sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the cheesecake, pressing gently to adhere.

7. Slice and enjoy your sweet, crunchy, and colorful cheesecake!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: 80 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free cookies for both the crust and topping.

• Extra strawberry flavor: Add strawberry extract to the filling for a more intense strawberry flavor.

• Decorative touch: Top with fresh strawberry slices for an added burst of color and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: If you prefer a firmer texture, freeze the cheesecake for about 1 hour before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any other cookie of your choice for the crust.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cookies for the crust and topping to make it gluten-free.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried ones for the topping?

You can, but freeze-dried strawberries work better for the crunch topping as they retain their texture when mixed with the other ingredients.

How long should I chill the cheesecake?

The cheesecake should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Can I skip the food coloring in this recipe?

Yes, the food coloring is optional and just adds a vibrant pink hue to the cheesecake and topping.

Can I add a different fruit to the cheesecake?

Yes, you can substitute strawberry puree with other fruit purees like raspberry or blueberry for a different flavor profile.

Can I make individual servings instead of one large cheesecake?

Yes, you can make individual cheesecakes by using mini springform pans or muffin tins.

What is the best way to slice the cheesecake?

Use a hot knife to slice the cheesecake cleanly, dipping it in warm water and wiping it dry between cuts.

Conclusion

The Very Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Slice is a delightful, colorful dessert that combines a creamy strawberry filling with a crunchy topping. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more.