Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Delight

Here’s a delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Delight recipe that combines creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic strawberry crunch topping often found on ice cream bars. This no-bake dessert is perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something sweet and fruity.

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub of whipped topping)

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 1 cup Golden Oreos (or any vanilla sandwich cookies), crushed
• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a firm crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the other layers.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (or use store-bought whipped topping). Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
4. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Return the dish to the fridge to chill while you prepare the toppings.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

1. In a food processor, crush the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until you get a crumbly mixture.
2. Add the melted butter and pulse a few times until the mixture holds together slightly. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Filling

1. In a small bowl, toss the fresh strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate and become juicy.

Step 5: Assemble the Dessert

1. Spread the macerated strawberries over the cheesecake layer.
2. Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the top of the strawberries, pressing down slightly so it adheres.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to set properly.
2. Once chilled, slice and serve this irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Delight.

Tips:

• You can drizzle with white chocolate or add extra whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
• For a quicker version, you can use strawberry-flavored gelatin or strawberry pie filling as a substitute for fresh strawberries.

This creamy, crunchy, and fruity Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Delight will be a hit at any gathering!