Description
Delight in this creamy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake that combines a buttery crushed frosted animal cookie crust with a luscious strawberry-infused cream cheese filling studded with crushed frosted animal cookies. Topped with light whipped cream and garnished with cookies, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups crushed frosted animal cookies
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed frosted animal cookies
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup crushed frosted animal cookies (for garnish)
- Whole frosted animal cookies for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed frosted animal cookies with 1/4 cup melted butter. Mix until the mixture is evenly coated and crumbly. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup strawberry puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next to maintain a smooth batter. Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed frosted animal cookies to add texture and flavor to the filling.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Turn off the oven and crack the door open; let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the Cheesecake: After the hour of cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to come to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and achieve the perfect texture.
- Add Toppings: Before serving, spread 1 cup of whipped cream evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with 1/2 cup crushed frosted animal cookies and several whole frosted animal cookies for a festive and inviting presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Blending frozen strawberries into the puree works well if fresh ones are unavailable.
- For best results, bake cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Allow cheesecake to chill thoroughly; this enhances flavor and texture.
- The crushed frosted animal cookies provide a sweet crunch and colorful appearance; substitute with graham crackers or similar cookies if unavailable.
