Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

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Indulge in a dessert that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake, fruity strawberry layers, and a satisfying crunchy cookie topping. This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a nostalgic treat that’s ideal for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or any time you crave a decadent dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 26 vanilla cream cookies (about 3/4 of a pack)
• 6 tablespoons melted butter

For the Filling:

• 1 small box (3.3 oz) strawberry gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

For the Crunchy Topping:

• 8 vanilla cream cookies
• 10 strawberry wafer cookies
• Optional: a few drops of food coloring
• Whipped topping (half small tub, thawed, for piping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Crush 26 vanilla cream cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor.
2. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the base of a greased 10-inch springform pan.
4. Freeze for 15 minutes to set firmly.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Gelatin Layer

1. Combine strawberry gelatin powder with 1 cup boiling water.
2. Stir continuously for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
3. Let it cool to room temperature (do not refrigerate).

Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Divide whipped cream in half: fold one half into the cream cheese mixture, the other half into the cooled gelatin for a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour half of the strawberry gelatin over the chilled crust and freeze 15 minutes.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top.
3. Pour the remaining strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream layer.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

1. Coarsely crush remaining vanilla and strawberry wafer cookies.
2. Optionally add food coloring for visual appeal.
3. Sprinkle over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Before serving, pipe whipped topping in decorative star shapes.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

Pro Tips

• Soften cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
• Freezing layers ensures clean, defined slices.
• Use a rolling pin and sealed bag if a food processor isn’t available.
• Homemade whipped cream can replace store-bought toppings for extra flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

• Creamy & Light: Airy whipped cream combined with cream cheese creates the perfect balance.
• Crunch Factor: Coarsely crushed cookies provide satisfying texture.
• Fruity Flavor: Strawberry gelatin adds a vibrant, sweet layer and nostalgic summer vibe.
• No-Bake Convenience: Easy to prepare without turning on the oven.

Substitutions & Variations

• Replace strawberry gelatin with raspberry or mixed berry gelatin for a new twist.
• Try chocolate or vanilla wafer cookies for a different crunch profile.
• Use flavored whipped cream (vanilla or strawberry) for extra sweetness.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap in plastic and foil for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Serving: Best served chilled; bring to room temperature 15–20 minutes for softer texture.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with fresh fruit salad or lemon sorbet for a balanced dessert.
• Serve alongside herbal tea or sparkling rosé to enhance flavors.
• Individual cups layered with strawberries and cookie crumbs make a charming presentation.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Sugar: 28 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different gelatin flavor?
Yes, raspberry or mixed berry gelatin works well for variety.

Is freezing between layers necessary?
Freezing ensures clean layers and firm texture, highly recommended.

Can I skip the food processor?
Yes, crush cookies in a sealed bag with a rolling pin.

How long to chill before serving?
Minimum 4 hours; overnight enhances flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! It adds richness and complements the creamy filling.

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy layers that evoke summer nostalgia. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any special occasion, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake with creamy layers, buttery cookie crust, and crunchy topping – a perfect summer dessert recipe.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Chilling Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Crust:

• 26 vanilla cream cookies (about 3/4 of a pack)
• 6 tbsp melted butter

For the Filling:

• 1 small box (3.3 oz) strawberry gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

For the Crunchy Topping:

• 8 vanilla cream cookies
• 10 strawberry wafer cookies
• Optional: a few drops of food coloring
• Whipped topping (half small tub, thawed, for piping)

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Crush 26 vanilla cream cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor.
• Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
• Press the mixture evenly into the base of a greased 10-inch springform pan.
• Freeze for 15 minutes to set firmly.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Gelatin Layer

• Combine strawberry gelatin powder with 1 cup boiling water.
• Stir continuously for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
• Let it cool to room temperature (do not refrigerate).

Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese Filling

• Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
• Divide whipped cream in half: fold one half into the cream cheese mixture, the other half into the cooled gelatin for a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

• Pour half of the strawberry gelatin over the chilled crust and freeze 15 minutes.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top.
• Pour the remaining strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream layer.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

• Coarsely crush remaining vanilla and strawberry wafer cookies.
• Optionally add food coloring for visual appeal.
• Sprinkle over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Before serving, pipe whipped topping in decorative star shapes.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

Notes

• Serves 12 generous slices.
• Ensure cream cheese is fully softened.
• Freezing steps help layers hold perfectly.
• Optional food coloring adds fun but isn’t necessary.

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