This recipe for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Inspired by the classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, these cheesecake chunks take that nostalgic flavor profile and transform it into a creamy, tangy, and crunchy treat. It’s a perfect dessert for a party, a potluck, or just a special weeknight indulgence. The combination of a buttery golden Oreo crust, a rich and smooth no-bake cheesecake filling, a vibrant strawberry topping, and a signature crunchy crumble creates a truly irresistible dessert that is impossible to pass on.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its multi-layered texture and flavor profile. The base is a golden Oreo crust, which provides a buttery, slightly salty foundation that complements the sweetness of the other layers. The no-bake cheesecake filling is the heart of the dessert—it’s incredibly smooth and tangy, made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and a touch of sweetness. The no-bake method makes this a fantastic option for a hot day or for those who prefer to skip the oven. The strawberry topping, made with fresh or frozen strawberries, is a vibrant and juicy layer that adds a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful pop of color. The final and most unique component is the strawberry crunch crumble, which combines crushed golden Oreos with freeze-dried strawberries and melted butter to create a sweet, crunchy, and addictive topping that is the signature of this dessert.
This recipe is designed for easy assembly and a stunning presentation. By preparing the cheesecake in a square pan and cutting it into individual chunks, you get a clean, polished look that is both modern and appetizing. The drizzle of white chocolate adds a final touch of elegance and a creamy finish that ties all the layers together. This detailed guide will walk you through each component, from making the buttery crust to assembling the final dessert, ensuring each layer is perfectly executed. The result is a dessert that is not only delicious and visually impressive but also a fun and satisfying project to make. These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks are guaranteed to be a huge hit with anyone who loves strawberries, cheesecake, and a little bit of crunch.
Ingredients:
For the Golden Oreo Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Golden Oreos – about 18-20 cookies.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – for binding the crust.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – to sweeten the crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened – full-fat cream cheese works best.
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted – for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped – whipped to stiff peaks.
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen strawberries, thawed – or 2 cups fresh strawberries.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – or more, to taste.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – to enhance the strawberry flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water.
For the Strawberry Crunch Crumble:
- 1 cup crushed Golden Oreos – about 10-12 cookies.
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed – a key ingredient for the signature flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – to bind the crumble.
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted – for drizzling.
- Fresh strawberries – for decoration.
Instruction:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the cheesecake out later. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to get a compact, smooth crust. Place the pan in the freezer to chill while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Topping
In a small saucepan, combine the thawed or fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the strawberries are soft, use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash some of the berries, leaving some chunks for texture. In a separate small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering strawberries and stir constantly until the topping thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set the whipped cream aside. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, with no lumps. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until it’s fully incorporated and the filling is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Retrieve the chilled crust from the freezer. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust. Place the pan back in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.
Step 5: Make the Strawberry Crunch Crumble
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. This will be the signature crunchy topping.
Step 6: Finishing Touches and Serving
Once the cheesecake is fully set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Carefully spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Now, sprinkle the strawberry crunch crumble generously over the top of the strawberry layer. For an extra touch, melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle the melted chocolate over the entire surface.
Cut the cheesecake into square or rectangular chunks. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For an added bonus, you can serve with a side of extra strawberry topping for dipping. These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks are an absolute delight and a surefire hit!