Introduction
Are you ready for a dessert that will not only make your taste buds sing but also wow your guests? Look no further! This Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a luscious and delightful dessert, boasting a creamy cheesecake filling, a crunchy golden Oreo crust, and a delectable strawberry crunch topping. With a balance of sweet, fruity, and crunchy textures, this cheesecake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or just a treat for yourself.
If you’re a fan of fruity desserts, cheesecake, and a little extra crunch, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake step by step, from preparing the crust to adding the final decorative touches. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this cheesecake is designed to be both simple and impressive.
What is the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake?
The Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a twist on traditional cheesecake, featuring a fruity strawberry-flavored filling combined with a crunchy, golden Oreo crust and an irresistible strawberry crunch topping. The key to this cheesecake’s appeal is the contrast between the smooth, creamy filling and the crunchy, flavorful topping. This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves berries, cheesecake, and an exciting texture combination.
The Origin of the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Cheesecake has been a beloved dessert for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient Greece. The modern cheesecake, as we know it today, evolved over time, with the introduction of cream cheese and various flavor combinations, making it a versatile dessert that appeals to a broad audience. The addition of fruit toppings and flavored fillings, like strawberries, is a relatively recent innovation that has become a favorite in many households.
This particular version, the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, is a creative twist on the classic cheesecake. The crunchy topping, made from golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries, adds an exciting texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling. The cheesecake’s strawberry flavor provides a refreshing, fruity punch that makes this dessert the perfect choice for summer and beyond.
Ingredients with Quantity for Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Here’s what you’ll need to create the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups (200g) crushed golden Oreos (or graham crackers if preferred)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz / 225g each) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (250g) strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup (100g) crushed golden Oreos
- ½ cup (50g) freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, melted
And lastly for Decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cheesecake doesn’t stick.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed golden Oreos and melted butter, mixing well until everything is evenly combined. The butter will help the crumbs stick together, forming a solid base for your crust.
Next, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even layer. Bake the crust in the oven for 8-10 minutes. After baking, let the crust cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring that the cream cheese has no lumps.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. After the eggs are incorporated, stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Finally, gently fold in the strawberry puree, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The mixture should have a smooth, pink color. Once the filling is ready, pour it over the cooled crust and smooth the top using a spatula.
3: Bake the Cheesecake
To prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake, wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil. Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This is known as the water bath method, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.
Bake the cheesecake in the oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, to let it set completely.
4: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Mix everything together until the mixture resembles a crumbly topping.
Once the cheesecake has fully set, spread the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Press it gently to help the topping adhere.
5: Decorate and Serve
To finish off the cheesecake, pipe some whipped cream around the edges for a decorative touch. You can also garnish the cheesecake with fresh strawberries for added freshness and color.
For extra indulgence, drizzle the cheesecake with strawberry sauce if you like. Slice, serve, and enjoy your Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!
Variations of the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
While this recipe is already a showstopper, there are several ways to add your personal touch or modify the recipe to suit your preferences:
- Different Fruit Purees: While strawberries are the star of this cheesecake, you can easily swap them out for other fruit purees like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Each fruit will give the cheesecake a unique flavor.
- Nuts in the Topping: If you’re a fan of nuts, add some chopped pecans or almonds to the strawberry crunch topping for an added texture and flavor boost.
- Chocolate Twist: To make the cheesecake extra indulgent, add a layer of melted chocolate ganache over the cheesecake filling before adding the crunch topping. Chocolate and strawberry are a perfect pair!
- Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly version, use vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and a plant-based butter substitute in place of the dairy ingredients.
FAQs About the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well. Be sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Q2: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight helps the flavors meld together and enhances the texture.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to a month.
Conclusion: Enjoying Strawberry Cheesecake
The Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements. With a golden Oreo crust, a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling, and a delightful strawberry crunch topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cheesecake will impress everyone who takes a bite. Try it today and enjoy a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
PrintBerrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Creamy, Fruity, and Crunchy Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a twist on traditional cheesecake, featuring a fruity strawberry-flavored filling combined with a crunchy, golden Oreo crust and an irresistible strawberry crunch topping. The key to this cheesecake’s appeal is the contrast between the smooth, creamy filling and the crunchy, flavorful topping. This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves berries, cheesecake, and an exciting texture combination.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups (200g) crushed golden Oreos (or graham crackers)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz / 225g each) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (250g) strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup (100g) crushed golden Oreos
- ½ cup (50g) freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, melted
For Decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry sauce (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos with melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the strawberry puree until the mixture is smooth and pink.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath method).
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then remove it from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake, pressing it gently to adhere.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- Pipe whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake and garnish with fresh strawberries.
- Drizzle with strawberry sauce if desired.
- Slice and enjoy your Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!
Notes
This Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is bursting with fruity flavor and a delightful crunch in every bite! Want to switch it up? Try mixing in raspberries or blueberries for a mixed-berry twist.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake