Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a luscious dessert featuring a creamy, velvety cheesecake layered with fresh strawberries and topped with a delightful crunchy element. Its harmonious blend of creamy texture, fruity freshness, and crisp topping makes it an irresistible showstopper ideal for gatherings and special occasions.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whipped cream
Fruit Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Crunchy Topping
- 1/2 cup toasted almonds or granola (or preferred crunchy topping)
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers finely and mix with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the base of a springform pan. Bake briefly at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes to set the crust. Remove and let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition without overmixing. Carefully fold in whipped cream to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble Layers: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, then evenly spread a generous layer of chopped fresh strawberries on top. Cover with the remaining cheesecake filling to create beautiful layers.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan in a water bath and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks. Let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Add the Crunchy Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle your choice of crunchy topping such as toasted almonds or granola evenly over the cheesecake for a crisp, sweet finish.
Notes
- Use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Blend gently once eggs are added to avoid incorporating too much air, preventing cracks.
- Baking in a water bath ensures even, gentle heat and a creamy texture.
- Chill cheesecake overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Use ripe, in-season strawberries for optimal flavor and freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, crunchy cheesecake, dessert recipe, layered cheesecake, fruit cheesecake