Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake: A Perfect Blend of Creamy and Crunchy Delight

A Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake combines everything you love about cheesecake with a delightful twist. Imagine the rich, creamy filling topped with a sweet, crunchy topping that makes every bite feel like a celebration.

I first made this cheesecake for a summer gathering, and it was an instant hit—perfect for when strawberries are at their peak and you want something that’s both indulgent and easy to make.

What makes this cheesecake special is how it balances creamy and crunchy textures, offering a perfect contrast in every bite.

If you’re a fan of unique cheesecakes, you’ll also love an Italian Cream Cheese Cake or a Creamy Butterbeer Cheesecake for their rich, indulgent flavors that also provide that satisfying creaminess with a twist.

This recipe is trending because of its unique layers—rich cheesecake, vibrant strawberry flavor, and a satisfying crunch topping that brings an unexpected twist. It’s a sweet treat that feels like a special occasion dessert but can easily be made for any gathering.

What’s So Great About This Dish?

• The Texture: The contrast of creamy cheesecake and crunchy topping is something you won’t get enough of.
• The Freshness: The strawberries keep it light, which is especially welcome when you want something indulgent without feeling overly rich.
• The Easy Make-Ahead: This cheesecake is great for meal prep or when you need a dessert that can be made ahead and stored for later.

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake features a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling on a buttery Nilla wafer crust, topped with sweet strawberry sauce and crunchy strawberry crumble. It’s a perfect combination of rich, tangy, and crunchy flavors, making every bite a treat!

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Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 10

Equipment

• Medium-size saucepan
• Immersion blender
• 9-inch springform pan
• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups

Ingredients

  

For the Strawberry Sauce

• 1 lb fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
• 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice

For the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble

• 1 11oz package Nilla wafers
• ½ cup 1 stick or 113g unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberry powder

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 32 oz cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 Tablespoons milk at room temperature
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Make strawberry sauce: Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook on medium-low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft.
  
• Puree the sauce: Use an immersion blender or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth. Cool in the fridge.
• Prepare crumble: Preheat oven to 350°F. Pulse Nilla wafers, melted butter, and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until combined.
  
• Make crust: Press crumble mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Save 1 cup of crumbs. Bake for 10 minutes and cool.
  
• Make cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add milk, flour, and vanilla, mixing until just combined.
  
• Fill the crust: Pour cheesecake filling into cooled crust. Spread evenly. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, until the center is firm.
  
• Cool the cheesecake: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight.
• Assemble: Remove cheesecake from pan, top with half of the strawberry sauce, and sprinkle with reserved crumble.
  
• Serve: Slice, serve, and enjoy!
  

Nutrition Info:

Variations for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe:

• Fruit Variations: Swap out the strawberry sauce for raspberry or blueberry sauce for a different fruity flavor. You can also combine strawberries with other berries for a mixed berry crunch cheesecake.
• Crust Options: Instead of Nilla wafers, you can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even a gluten-free cookie crust for a different texture or dietary preference.
• Flavor Twist: Add a splash of almond extract or lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of flavor that complements the strawberry elements.
• Topping Variations: Try topping the cheesecake with fresh sliced strawberries, chocolate ganache, or a drizzle of caramel for a unique finish.
• Freeze-Dried Fruit Alternatives: Use freeze-dried raspberries, blueberries, or even mango powder for a fun variation in the crumble topping.