Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake That Steals the Show Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 9 reviews
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert featuring a creamy, smooth cheesecake base topped with a vibrant strawberry layer and a delightful crunchy topping. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat, this recipe combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and fresh strawberries with a satisfying crunch that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Strawberry Topping

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Crunchy Topping

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or crunchy cereal

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating. Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is silky and smooth.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5 minutes until the strawberries release their juices. If desired, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Cool completely before using.
  5. Make the Crunchy Topping: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter and stir in chopped nuts, sugar, and crushed graham crackers or cereal. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  6. Assemble the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has cooled completely in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface. Sprinkle the crunchy topping generously on top just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps it set firmly and prevents sogginess.
  • You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones, but thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking the topping.
  • To avoid cracks, do not overbake the cheesecake and allow it to cool gradually in the oven.
  • The crunchy topping can be customized with your favorite nuts or cereal for different textures and flavors.

Find it online: https://cookedbylina.com/strawberry-crunch-cheesecake-that-steals-the-show-recipe/