Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a luscious no-bake dessert that perfectly balances creamy cheesecake filling, fresh and juicy strawberries, and a satisfying crunchy topping. This visually stunning dessert is easy to make with simple ingredients, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for special occasions or casual treats, it’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds with every bite.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free crust is used)
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
For the Crunchy Topping
- 1/2 cup crunch topping (such as toasted nuts, crispy cereal, streusel, toasted coconut flakes, or crushed pretzels)
- Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set firmly.
- Make the creamy cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped cream or heavy cream and vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is light yet rich.
- Add fresh strawberries: Evenly layer the sliced fresh strawberries over the chilled crust. These strawberries add brightness and a juicy texture contrast.
- Pour the cheesecake filling: Spread the creamy cheesecake mixture over the strawberry layer, smoothing it out evenly to create a luscious middle layer.
- Add the crunch topping: Sprinkle your choice of crunchy topping—such as toasted nuts, crispy cereal, or streusel—over the top to add signature crunch.
- Chill until set: Refrigerate the entire cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up perfectly before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t skip chilling time; it enhances flavor and ensures perfect texture.
- Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best natural sweetness and aroma.
- Toast nuts or cereal slightly before using to boost flavor and crunchiness.
- Using a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier without damaging its shape.
- Crunch topping can be prepared in advance and stored airtight to maintain crispness.
- For nut-free crunch, use toasted coconut flakes or crushed pretzels.
- Gluten-free crust can be made with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, crunchy topping, creamy dessert, fruit dessert