Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Pops are a fun, cool twist on the classic cheesecake, combining a creamy filling with a sweet, crunchy strawberry coating. These popsicles are easy to make and perfect for hot days, offering a refreshing burst of flavor. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla, these cheesecake pops are coated with a mix of graham cracker crumbs, crushed strawberries, and optional white chocolate drizzle. Enjoy this delightful frozen treat with family and friends.
AdvertisementStrawberry Crunch Cheesecake Pops
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Pops offer a refreshing and fun twist on classic cheesecake, making them perfect for warm days. These popsicles feature a creamy cheesecake filling coated in a crunchy strawberry mixture, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The combination of sweet, tangy strawberries and smooth cheesecake makes these pops an irresistible treat for both kids and adults.
INGREDIENTS
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened, for a creamy filling
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup for the cheesecake filling, plus 1/2 cup for the strawberry coating
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup, for added creaminess in the filling
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup, to create a smooth texture in the cheesecake filling
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, to enhance the flavor
- Crushed graham crackers: 1/2 cup for the filling, plus 1 cup for the coating
- Crushed strawberries: 1 cup, fresh or frozen, for the crunchy coating
- Melted butter: 1/4 cup, to bind the graham cracker coating
- White chocolate chips (optional): 1/2 cup, for drizzling over the pops
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- For the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until creamy, then fold in crushed graham crackers.
- Step 2:
- For the strawberry crunch coating: Mix the crushed strawberries with sugar. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Melt white chocolate chips if using.
- Step 3:
- To assemble the pops: Fill popsicle molds 3/4 full with the cheesecake filling. Tap the molds gently to remove air bubbles. Drizzle with white chocolate if desired, then top with the graham cracker mixture.
- Step 4:
- Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the popsicles are firm.
- Step 5:
- Run warm water over the molds to loosen the popsicles, then gently pull them out and enjoy immediately.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, mix strawberry puree into the cheesecake filling before freezing.
- If you don’t have popsicle molds, use paper cups and wooden sticks as a DIY alternative.
Helpful Notes
- Try adding a touch of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling for a zesty twist.
- For a firmer texture, freeze the pops for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use high-quality vanilla extract and fresh strawberries for the best flavor, as recommended by professional pastry chefs.
Perfecting Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Pops
To create perfectly layered cheesecake pops, make sure the cheesecake filling is smooth and well-mixed before filling the molds. Adding a drizzle of white chocolate on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely decorative touch to the popsicles.
Customizing Your Cheesecake Pops
Try experimenting with different fruit flavors, such as blueberry or raspberry, for a unique twist. You can also swap the graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits for a different texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fruit for the coating?
Yes, you can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mangoes for the crunch coating.
How can I make these pops dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegan butter in the coating.
Can I add mix-ins to the cheesecake filling?
Yes, add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cheesecake filling for extra texture and flavor.
How long can I store these pops?
Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Summary
These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Pops combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with a sweet, crunchy strawberry coating, making them a perfect summer treat. Each pop starts with a creamy filling made from cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and crushed graham crackers. The pops are then topped with a strawberry crunch coating made from crushed strawberries, graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter, with an optional drizzle of white chocolate for added sweetness. Easy to make and fun to eat, these popsicles offer a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake flavor. Freeze for at least 4 hours and enjoy a cool, refreshing dessert on warm days.