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Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

Delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake with creamy layers, buttery cookie crust, and crunchy topping – a perfect summer dessert recipe.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
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.