Description
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake features a creamy and fluffy cream cheese filling mixed with fresh strawberries, set on a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped with a delightful strawberry crunch made from strawberry gelatin, vanilla wafer cookies, and freeze-dried strawberries. Perfectly chilled for a refreshing dessert that combines smooth textures with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry gelatin powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1 1/2 cups freeze-dried strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Add Butter: Stir in the melted unsalted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated and well combined.
- Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes then remove and allow to cool completely to set the base.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Incorporate Vanilla: Add vanilla extract and beat for another 30 seconds to fully incorporate flavor.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care to maintain the airiness.
- Add Strawberries: Chop fresh strawberries into small pieces and fold them gently into the cheesecake batter for bursts of fruit flavor.
- Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake mixture onto the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Chill Cheesecake: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set firmly.
- Melt Butter for Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely.
- Add Gelatin: Stir the strawberry gelatin powder into the melted butter until smooth and thoroughly mixed.
- Combine Cookies: Add crushed vanilla wafer cookies to the saucepan and stir to coat them well with the gelatin butter mixture.
- Add Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Stir in freeze-dried strawberries, breaking up larger pieces to distribute evenly throughout the crunch topping.
- Apply Topping: Evenly spread the strawberry crunch topping over the chilled cheesecake, pressing gently so it adheres well.
- Final Chill: Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to firm up the topping before serving.
- Remove Pan: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan to reveal the cheesecake.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy the creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures of the strawberry crunch cheesecake.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting or sogginess.
- Chilling time is critical to achieve the proper firmness of the cheesecake.
- The crunch topping adds both texture and strawberry flavor that complements the creamy filling.
- For easier removal, run a knife around the edge before unlatching the springform pan.
- Can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
