If you are searching for a delightful treat that’s bursting with fruity freshness and creamy indulgence, the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine bite-sized cheesecake pieces with a buttery graham cracker crust, layered with a luscious strawberry sauce and topped with a golden Oreo-strawberry crunch that adds just the right amount of crispy texture. Each chunk is drizzled with white chocolate, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these irresistible cheesecake chunks is easier than you might think. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor, texture, and color that bring this dessert alive. From the creamy richness of the cream cheese to the bright pop of fresh strawberries, every component complements the other perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling with its sweet, aromatic essence.
- Large eggs: Help bind the cheesecake filling together, giving it that silky, smooth texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the filling and strawberry sauce, balancing tartness and enhancing flavors.
- Cream cheese: The star of the show, softened to ensure a creamy, luscious filling.
- Melted unsalted butter (for crust): Binds the graham cracker crumbs together for a sturdy, rich base.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a classic crunchy foundation with a hint of honey-like sweetness.
- Melted butter (for crunch): Coats the Oreo-strawberry topping, adding moisture and richness.
- Freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder: Infuse the crunch topping with intense strawberry flavor.
- Golden Oreo cookies, crushed: Bring a buttery, slightly sweet crunch to the topping layer.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry sauce with its touch of citrusy zing.
- Chopped fresh strawberries: Essential for the vibrant, fresh strawberry sauce.
- White chocolate, melted: Adds a creamy, decadent drizzle on top for extra indulgence.
- More strawberry crunch mix: Used for sprinkling on top to complete the look and add an irresistible crunch.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by setting your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease it well to make sure your cheesecake chunks come out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Form Graham Cracker Crust
In a large bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until all the crumbs are evenly coated and look damp. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a sturdy crust. Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract to round out the flavor.
Step 4: Bake Cheesecake Layer
Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust and smooth it out evenly. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when the pan is nudged. Once done, cool the cheesecake on the counter, then move it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
Step 5: Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping
Mix the crushed golden Oreos, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and either freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder in a bowl. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and coated. Let this topping rest so it firms up slightly for the perfect crunch.
Step 6: Cook Strawberry Sauce
Combine the chopped fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice in a pan over medium heat. Stir to break up the berries and let the mixture bubble for 5 to 7 minutes until the fruit softens and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Step 7: Slice and Assemble Chunks
Remove the chilled cheesecake from the pan and cut it into bite-sized chunks or squares. Arrange these on a serving platter or tray, ready to be dressed with delightful toppings.
Step 8: Finish with Toppings
Pour a spoonful of the cooled strawberry sauce over each chunk, then scatter a generous amount of the strawberry crunch topping on top. Drizzle melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the pieces to add a luscious finishing touch. Sprinkle extra strawberry crunch if you want an added layer of delightful texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh mint leaf or a small whole strawberry on each chunk can elevate its presentation and add a pop of color. These garnishes not only beautify the dessert but bring a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
Serve these cheesecake chunks alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert pairing. Their light yet indulgent nature complements warm drinks and creamy sides wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cheesecake chunks on a dessert tower or arranging them in a colorful box wrapped with a ribbon for a gift-worthy presentation. You can even serve them on skewers alternating with fresh berries for a playful, bite-sized dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake chunks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat to enjoy later.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake chunks for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve their creamy texture.
Reheating
These cheesecake chunks are best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer them slightly less cold, let them sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular strawberries instead of freeze-dried or Jell-O powder for the crunch topping?
Freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder work best for the crunch topping because they add intense flavor without moisture, which helps keep the topping crisp. Regular strawberries would make it soggy, but you can certainly enjoy fresh strawberries in the sauce and garnish.
Do I need a water bath for baking the cheesecake?
This recipe does not require a water bath because the baking temperature and time are set to keep the cheesecake from cracking while maintaining a lovely creamy texture.
How long should I chill the cheesecake before cutting?
Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator is essential for it to firm up and hold its shape when sliced. For best results, overnight chilling is ideal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and gluten-free sandwich cookies in the same quantities to make this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead for a party?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe is fantastic for prepping ahead. Bake and chill the cheesecake chunks a day or two before your event, then add the strawberry sauce and crunch topping just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe feels like handing over a little piece of joy. Every step, from the buttery crust to the fresh strawberry sauce and crunchy topping, comes together in a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Don’t wait to treat yourself and those you love to these vibrant, creamy, and crunchy delights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a treasured favorite for all your celebrations and cozy nights in!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks are creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor combined with a crunchy golden Oreo and graham cracker crust. Baked to perfection and topped with a sweet strawberry sauce and white chocolate drizzle, this dessert is perfect for serving as bite-sized treats or plated desserts.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crushed golden Oreo cookies
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder
Strawberry Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Additional Toppings
- White chocolate, melted, for drizzling
- More strawberry crunch mix, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease it well to prevent sticking.
- Form Graham Cracker Crust: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter. Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated and look damp. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to create an even crust layer. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Bake Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is mostly set but the center still jiggles slightly. Remove from oven and let it cool on the counter. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully.
- Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping: In a bowl, mix together the crushed golden Oreo cookies, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder. Stir until all components are evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld while the cheesecake chills.
- Cook Strawberry Sauce: Combine chopped fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice in a pan over medium heat. Stir frequently and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens slightly into a syrupy sauce. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool completely.
- Slice and Assemble Chunks: Once the cheesecake is completely chilled and firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into chunks or bars of your desired size. Arrange the pieces on a serving plate or tray.
- Finish with Toppings: Spoon a little of the cooled strawberry sauce onto each cheesecake chunk. Sprinkle generously with the strawberry crunch topping. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the chunks in a zigzag pattern for added sweetness and decoration. Add extra strawberry crunch mix on top if desired.
- Serve: Serve these cheesecake chunks cold. They make perfect bite-sized desserts or elegant plated treats to enjoy at any gathering.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Using freeze-dried strawberries in the crunch topping adds a nice texture and concentrated strawberry flavor.
- Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight yields the best texture and flavor.
- Golden Oreos provide a unique twist that complements the strawberry flavor well.
- You can substitute strawberry Jell-O powder for freeze-dried strawberries if unavailable.
- For an easier drizzle, melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second increments.
