If you have a soft spot for creamy, crunchy, and fruity desserts, then this Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. The luscious cream cheese filling features a delicate swirl of strawberry preserves that add just the right pop of sweetness, while the buttery Golden Oreo crust brings a tender crunch that complements every bite. And the best part? A heavenly strawberry crunch topping with freeze-dried strawberries and crushed cookies gives this cheesecake its signature delightful texture. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or treating yourself to a slice, this Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe will win hearts with its irresistible blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this cheesecake is refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating a dessert that is rich, balanced, and packed with strawberry bliss. From the creamy filling to the crunchy topping, every component adds its own magic.
- Golden Oreo crumbs (2 cups): These provide a sweet, buttery base that feels light and crisp as your crust.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted, plus 2 tablespoons for topping): Essential for binding the crust and topping, adding that smooth richness.
- Cream cheese (3 packages, 8 ounces each, softened): The stars of the filling—supply velvety texture and tangy flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the cream cheese tartness and enhances overall sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the creamy filling.
- Large eggs (3): They provide structure and silkiness, ensuring a perfect cheesecake set.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a touch of tang to make every bite luscious.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (1/2 cup): Infuses the filling with fresh strawberry flavor and a beautiful swirl.
- Freeze-dried strawberries (1/2 cup crushed): These add that crisp, intense strawberry crunch in the topping.
- Golden Oreos (1 cup crushed for topping): Extra cookie crunch to complement the freeze-dried strawberries on top.
- Optional Garnishes: Whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and extra strawberry preserves to elevate presentation and flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepping a 9-inch springform pan—lining the bottom with parchment paper and lightly greasing the sides to ensure your cheesecake releases smoothly later on. Combine those Golden Oreo crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of your pan to create a firm, buttery crust that will hold every creamy bite. Pop it in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes to set the crust before the rich filling goes on top, then cool completely.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
In a spacious bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed here! Gradually mix in the granulated sugar and freshly added vanilla extract to balance richness with just a hint of warmth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each to ensure a flawless, silky batter. Finally, stir in the sour cream for extra moisture and creaminess before gently swirling in the strawberry preserves. This swirl not only infuses beautiful color but adds pockets of fruity sweetness that burst in every forkful.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour your dreamy filling over the cooled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula for an even bake. Place the pan in your oven and bake for approximately 55 to 65 minutes until the edges are set and the center has just a slight jiggle—that’s the sign of perfect doneness. Turn off the oven and crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool gradually inside for an hour, which helps prevent cracks. Afterward, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least four hours or ideally overnight to let it fully set and develop its signature creamy texture.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping and Finish
While your cheesecake is chilling, mix together crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and sticky—this creates a delicious crunchy topping that adds texture and an intense strawberry flavor punch. Once fully chilled, carefully release the cheesecake from its pan and press this strawberry crunch mixture onto the top and gently around the sides. This extra layer of texture and flavor truly makes this Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe stand out. Add your optional garnishes and slice up this beautiful cake for a show-stopping dessert.
How to Serve Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
A classic combination of fluffy whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries always brightens the presentation and adds fresh flavor contrasts. Drizzling extra strawberry preserves over each slice can also add an elegant, glossy finish and an extra burst of sweetness that celebrates the strawberries at the heart of this dessert.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing drink such as sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a fruity iced tea. Fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the richness, balancing every bite with a fresh or creamy counterpart.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual cheesecake slices in clear glasses layered with strawberry jam and crumbs for a deconstructed treat to wow guests. Alternatively, use mini springform pans for personal-sized cheesecakes, allowing each person to enjoy their own Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake experience. Garnishing with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves can also add an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake keeps best when stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. Use plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain moisture and texture. The Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe’s flavors only deepen and get better after resting a day or two.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture. Note that the crunch topping may lose some crispness after freezing, but the flavor remains wonderfully intact.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is usually not recommended. However, if you prefer it slightly softened, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for a smoother bite without losing any of its characteristic refreshing qualities.
FAQs
Can I use regular Oreos instead of Golden Oreos in the Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe?
While regular Oreos can be used, Golden Oreos add a lighter, vanilla flavor that perfectly complements the strawberry notes. Using regular Oreos will give a chocolate twist, which is delicious but changes the classic taste and color profile of this cheesecake.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
Chilling overnight is highly recommended as it allows the cheesecake to fully set, resulting in a creamier texture and richer flavor. If you’re short on time, a minimum of four hours in the fridge will still yield a delicious outcome.
Can I substitute strawberry preserves with fresh strawberries?
You can use fresh strawberries, but preserves add concentrated sweetness and a smooth texture that fresh fruit may not provide. If using fresh berries, consider cooking them down into a compote or blending for a similar effect.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?
Cooling the cheesecake slowly by turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly open helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free, swap Golden Oreos for gluten-free vanilla cookies for both the crust and topping. Be sure to check all other ingredient labels to ensure no hidden gluten sources.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful way to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice. Its perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures makes it feel special yet approachable for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it a comforting classic that quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your dessert rotation.
Print
Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Krunch Cheesecake is a luscious dessert featuring a buttery Golden Oreo crust, silky cream cheese filling with a swirl of strawberry preserves, and a delightful crunchy topping made from crushed Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. Perfectly baked and chilled to creamy perfection, it’s an indulgent treat for strawberry lovers with a crunchy twist.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups Golden Oreo crumbs (about 20 cookies)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves or jam
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Extra strawberry preserves
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. In a bowl, combine the Golden Oreo crumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and continue beating until silky smooth. Gently fold in the strawberry preserves to create a swirl effect, then pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake: After the initial cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set and develop its creamy texture.
- Prepare the strawberry crunch topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until crumbly but well incorporated.
- Assemble and garnish: Carefully remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan. Press the strawberry crunch topping evenly onto the top and sides of the cheesecake. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or a drizzle of extra strawberry preserves if desired. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can replace Golden Oreos with vanilla wafers if preferred for the crust and topping.
- To enhance the strawberry flavor, increase the amount of strawberry preserves in the batter or add an extra spoonful of jam on each slice served.
- Make sure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent cracking.
- Freeze-dried strawberries add a crunchy texture but can be omitted if unavailable; fresh strawberries can also be used for garnish.
