Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe is inspired by childhood treats, using cream cheese, cookies, butter, freeze-dried strawberries, and vanilla.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Roasting pan (for water bath)
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed golden sandwich cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries crushed
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Wrap the outside of your springform pan with foil to prepare for the water bath.
- Mix crushed cookies and melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy, scraping the bowl often. Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix. This keeps the cheesecake silky, not cracked.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour filling over cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a roasting pan and carefully pour hot water halfway up the sides.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let it cool slowly for one hour.
- Refrigerate at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Crunch
- Mix crushed cookies, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until crumbly and vibrant pink.
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, gently press the crunch topping over the surface. Be generous. This is not the time to hold back.