Indulge in this decadent Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Delight! With layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and a crunchy topping, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 🍪 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 🧈 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🧈 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 🧀 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🍬 1 cup granulated sugar
- 🥛 1 cup sour cream
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🌿 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 🍓 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crunch Topping:
- 🍪 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 🍪 1/2 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- 🧈 1/4 cup melted butter
📝 Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
- Beat in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
4️⃣ Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss to mix well.
- Let the strawberries macerate for at least 30 minutes.
5️⃣ Make the Crunch Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer cookies, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
6️⃣ Assemble the Dessert:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the macerated strawberries evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the crunch topping over the strawberries.
7️⃣ Serve:
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Slice and serve this delightful dessert.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cooling and Chilling Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For a smoother cheesecake, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- You can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.