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This strawberry crunch cheesecake transforms two beloved desserts into one showstopping treat. The creamy cheesecake base perfectly complements the nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream bar topping, creating a dessert that's equally impressive on the eyes and the palate.
I first created this for my daughter's birthday after she couldn't decide between cheesecake and strawberry shortcake. The combination became an instant family tradition, and now it's requested for nearly every celebration.
Ingredients
- Crushed Golden Oreos: for the crust creates a sweeter foundation than traditional graham crackers while complementing the strawberry flavors
- Cream cheese: use full fat bricks for the richest texture and allow them to come fully to room temperature
- Sour cream and heavy cream: add essential moisture and creaminess to prevent a dry cheesecake
- Freeze dried strawberries: provide intense natural flavor without adding moisture that would soften the crunch topping
- Golden Oreos: in the topping create the iconic crunch texture that makes this dessert memorable
- Fresh strawberries: for the optional sauce deliver bright freshness that balances the rich cheesecake
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Process Golden Oreos until they become fine crumbs. Mix thoroughly with melted butter until every crumb is moistened. Press the mixture firmly into your springform pan using the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even, compact layer. Bake just until fragrant, about 8 minutes. The pre-baking step ensures your crust stays crisp beneath the cheesecake filling.
- Create the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese on medium speed for a full 3 minutes until completely smooth with no lumps whatsoever. Add sugar and vanilla, scraping down the bowl thoroughly between additions. Mix in eggs one at a time on low speed just until incorporated. Overmixing after adding eggs can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks. Gently fold in sour cream, heavy cream and flour until just combined for the silkiest texture.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pour batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Place wrapped springform pan in a water bath with water reaching halfway up the sides. Bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. The slow cooling method is crucial for preventing the dramatic temperature change that causes cracks.
- Craft the Signature Topping:
- Pulse Golden Oreos and freeze dried strawberries together until you achieve a coarse crumb texture with visible bits of both components. The varying sizes create the perfect crunch. Drizzle with melted butter and toss until crumbs are just moistened enough to hold together when pressed. Apply generously to the chilled cheesecake for maximum crunch factor.
The freeze dried strawberries are my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered them after multiple attempts with fresh strawberries left the topping soggy. The intense flavor concentration in freeze dried berries gives that authentic strawberry shortcake ice cream bar taste that instantly transports you back to childhood summer days.
Make Ahead Instructions
This cheesecake actually improves with time in the refrigerator. Prepare the cheesecake and chill completely, but wait to add the crunchy topping until 2 hours before serving. This timing ensures the topping maintains maximum crunchiness while still allowing the flavors to meld. If making several days ahead, store the cheesecake and topping separately, combining just before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your cheesecake develops cracks despite the water bath, don't worry. The beautiful crunch topping will conceal any imperfections. For a completely crack free surface, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing after adding eggs.
The strawberry crunch topping should be applied generously but pressed very lightly onto the surface. Pressing too firmly will cause it to sink into the cheesecake. If your topping seems too wet, add more crushed cookies until you reach the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slightly chilled rather than cold from the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully develop. A warm strawberry sauce drizzled over each slice adds dramatic presentation and enhances the strawberry flavor.
For an elevated dessert bar, offer additional toppings like fresh whipped cream, white chocolate shavings, or additional fresh strawberries so guests can customize their slices. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside transforms this into an ultimate dessert experience that bridges cheesecake and the nostalgic ice cream bar perfectly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Prevent cracks by baking the cheesecake in a water bath, letting it cool gradually in the oven, and avoiding overmixing the batter.
- → Can I use a different crust instead of Golden Oreos?
Yes, you can substitute with graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a similar taste and texture.
- → What can I use if I don't have freeze-dried strawberries?
Strawberry-flavored gelatin powder combined with Golden Oreos can provide a similar crunchy and sweet topping.
- → Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?
A water bath helps achieve a smooth texture, but you can bake with a dish of water on a lower rack as an alternative.
- → How do I make the optional strawberry sauce?
Cook strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until soft, then add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken. Let it cool before serving.
- → Can I prepare this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight to fully set for the best texture and flavor.