What is the strawberry crunch made of?

The signature strawberry crunch topping is a mix of crushed Golden Oreo Thins , freeze-dried strawberry powder , reserved strawberry crumbs , and melted butter . It mimics that nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream shell—but better. The buttery cookies and tart berries create a sweet, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake base.

Can you put fresh strawberries in cheesecake?

Yes, but use them wisely. Fresh strawberries can add moisture to the filling, which may interfere with the structure of no-bake cheesecake. Instead, use freeze-dried strawberries inside the filling for a concentrated flavor without added water. Fresh berries work best as a garnish on top just before serving.

Is strawberry cheesecake good?

Absolutely! Strawberry cheesecake is one of the most beloved dessert combinations out there. It’s refreshing, creamy, fruity , and sweet—especially in bar or chunk form where it’s easy to serve and enjoy. Adding a crunchy topping like strawberry shortcake crumble takes the classic to a whole new level.

How to thicken strawberry cheesecake topping?

If your cheesecake topping feels too soft or loose, you can fix it by: Adding a bit more powdered sugar Incorporating more freeze-dried strawberry powder (acts as a natural thickener) Letting it chill longer— at least 6–8 hours for best results Avoid adding gelatin unless absolutely necessary, as it can affect texture and flavor.

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks

Description

This no-bake strawberry crunch cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert layered over a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a nostalgic strawberry crunch inspired by the classic ice cream bars. With real freeze-dried strawberries and a vanilla cream filling, it’s a dreamy, fruity treat for any special occasion!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Strawberry Powder:
2.4 ounces freeze-dried strawberries (2 bags)
Strawberry Crunch Topping:
14 Golden Oreo Thins (3/4 cup crumbs)
1 tablespoon strawberry powder
Reserved freeze-dried strawberry crumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Graham Cracker Crust:
10 full graham cracker sheets (1 1/2 cup crumbs)
1/4 cup sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Pinch of Kosher salt
Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling:
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, cold
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
Reserved strawberry powder
Fresh strawberries, for garnish

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Instructions

Make the Strawberry Powder: Blend freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor into a fine powder. Sift and separate any chunks. Set powder aside and save chunks for topping.
Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping: Pulse Golden Oreos into fine crumbs. Reserve 1/3 of the crumbs. Combine remaining crumbs with strawberry powder, reserved strawberry chunks, and melted butter. Stir in the reserved plain crumbs and refrigerate until ready to use.
Make the Graham Cracker Crust: Pulse graham crackers into crumbs. Mix with sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill while making the filling.
Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling: Whip cold heavy cream into stiff peaks; set aside. Beat cold cream cheese with sugar and powdered sugar until smooth. Add lemon zest, juice, vanilla, sour cream, and remaining strawberry powder. Beat until fully smooth and combined.
Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture in batches until smooth and fluffy.
Spread filling evenly over chilled crust. Smooth top and press filling into edges. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Once set, remove springform ring. Top with strawberry crunch topping, gently pressing to adhere. Garnish with fresh strawberries, slice, and serve.

Notes

Chill overnight for best texture and flavor development.
Vanilla extract can be used in place of vanilla bean paste.
Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 27 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 33 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg