Description
Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a luscious dessert combining the tartness of fresh strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. Topped optionally with nuts or toasted coconut, this cheesecake offers a perfect texture contrast and vibrant flavor, making it ideal for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra slices for garnish)
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- Additional graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press firmly into the base of a springform pan or baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to allow it to set.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt, mixing until creamy and well combined. Avoid overbeating to reduce air bubbles.
- Incorporate the Strawberries: Gently fold in chopped fresh strawberries, reserving some slices for garnish. This will distribute juicy berry flavor throughout the cheesecake.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling evenly over the chilled crust. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45-55 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Cool gradually to avoid cracking.
- Add Crunchy Topping and Chill: Once cooled to room temperature, sprinkle with your choice of crunchy topping like chopped nuts or extra graham crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and sour cream for a smoother filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks and dense texture.
- Consider baking with a water bath to maintain moisture and reduce cracking.
- Use fresh strawberries for optimal flavor and texture; avoid watery or overly ripe berries.
- Chill thoroughly before serving to ensure the cheesecake holds its shape.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg