Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (for the crust).
02 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for the crust).
03 - 2 cups cream cheese, softened (for the cream cheese layer).
04 - 1 cup granulated sugar (for the cream cheese layer).
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract (for the cream cheese layer).
06 - 2 cups heavy cream, whipped (for the cream cheese layer).
07 - 1 cup strawberry preserves (for the strawberry mousse layer).
08 - ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (for the strawberry mousse layer).
09 - ½ cup vanilla wafer crumbs (for the strawberry mousse layer).
10 - Fresh strawberries (for garnish).

Instructions:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in whipped cream. Spread half of this mixture over the chilled crust.
03 - Spread strawberry preserves evenly over the cream cheese layer, then top with the remaining cream cheese mixture, smoothing it out.
04 - Mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafer crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheesecake.
05 - Garnish with fresh strawberries and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

Notes:

01 - This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake features layers of creamy cheesecake and strawberry mousse, topped with a crunchy mixture of freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafers.
02 - It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings or special occasions.