This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Slice with Strawberry Pink Cream Icing is a delightful treat that’s perfect for strawberry lovers. It combines a creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberry puree, topped with a crunchy strawberry-flavored layer and a pink cream icing that adds both color and flavor. The graham cracker crust provides a classic foundation, and each bite offers a blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity textures. Serve this show-stopping dessert chilled, and enjoy the burst of fresh strawberry flavor!
INGREDIENTS- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups, for cheesecake crust
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted for crust and topping
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for cheesecake filling
- Cream cheese: 4 (8 oz) packages, softened for filling
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Eggs: 4 large, for structure
- Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, pureed for filling
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup, for filling texture
- Chopped strawberries: 1 cup, for crunch topping
- Strawberry Jell-O powder: 1/2 cup, for topping flavor
- Crushed graham crackers: 1 cup, for crunch topping
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted for crunch topping
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened for icing
- Powdered sugar: 4 cups, for icing sweetness
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (add more if needed for icing consistency)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for icing flavor
- Fresh strawberries: 1/2 cup, pureed (or strawberry syrup) for icing flavor and color
- Pink food coloring: optional, for icing color
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 2:
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add sugar, mixing until creamy. Add vanilla extract, eggs, and flour, mixing until just combined. Fold in pureed strawberries.
- Step 5:
- Pour cheesecake batter over the crust and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool with the oven door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Step 6:
- Once cool, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 7:
- For the crunch topping, combine chopped strawberries, strawberry Jell-O powder, crushed graham crackers, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until combined.
- Step 8:
- Once the cheesecake is set, evenly spread the strawberry crunch topping over the top.
- Step 9:
- For the strawberry pink cream icing, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Step 10:
- Fold in pureed strawberries and add a few drops of pink food coloring if desired.
- Step 11:
- Carefully spread the strawberry pink cream icing over the cheesecake, leaving the crunch topping visible if desired.
- Step 12:
- Remove cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled.
- Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a small amount of strawberry extract to the icing.
- To prevent the cheesecake from cracking, avoid overmixing the batter and allow it to cool gradually in the oven.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Chef Tip: For extra crunch, double the topping recipe and cover the sides as well.
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake combines fresh, creamy, and crunchy textures with a vibrant strawberry flavor. Perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert, it’s sure to delight with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
FAQsCan I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen strawberries before using to prevent excess liquid in the batter.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven and avoid overmixing the batter to reduce air bubbles.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Add the icing and topping just before serving for best results.