If you have a sweet tooth that delights in creamy, crunchy, and fruity all at once, you are going to adore this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe. These bite-sized bites are little pockets of joy, combining a smooth cheesecake base with a golden Oreo and strawberry crunch topping that adds both texture and bright flavor. Whether it’s for a party, a cozy night in, or simply treating yourself, these chunks bring the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness wrapped in a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will praise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe begins its magic. Each one has a role that elevates the dish’s taste, texture, and that gorgeous pinkish pop of strawberry color.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that elevates the cheesecake’s creaminess.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and create a velvety texture for the cheesecake filling.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly without overpowering the natural strawberry notes.
- Cream cheese (24 ounces): The star ingredient for a luxuriously smooth and rich cheesecake base.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Brings moisture and richness to the crust and topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): The foundational crunchy crust with a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- Melted butter (3 tablespoons): Helps bind the golden Oreo and strawberry crunch topping to perfection.
- Freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder (1/2 cup): Imparts a vibrant, tangy strawberry punch in the crunch mix.
- Golden Oreo cookies (1 1/2 cups, crushed): Provide a sweet, vanilla crunch that pairs beautifully with the cheesecake.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the strawberry sauce with a zesty kick.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup, for strawberry sauce): Sweetens the fresh strawberry sauce without masking the fruit’s natural flavor.
- Chopped fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups): Create a fresh, fruity sauce to complement the cheesecake.
- White chocolate (melted): For elegantly drizzling over the top, adding creamy sweetness and visual appeal.
- More strawberry crunch mix: For sprinkling on top to finish the look and add extra texture.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by setting your oven to 325°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Grease the parchment well to ensure that the cheesecake won’t stick. This little prep step makes all the difference when it’s time to remove your cheesecake chunks.
Step 2: Form Graham Cracker Crust
Mix 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup melted butter in a large bowl until every crumb looks damp and ready to pack. Press this mixture tightly into the bottom of your lined pan. Pop this crust in the oven for about 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. This creates the perfect sturdy base that holds those delicious cheesecake chunks together.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Mixture
In another bowl, beat 24 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until silky smooth and creamy. Add the three large eggs one by one, mixing well between each addition. Finish by blending in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This smooth, rich filling is the heart of the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe.
Step 4: Bake Cheesecake Layer
Pour your creamy filling over the cooled crust and smooth it out evenly. Bake the cheesecake for 40 to 45 minutes until it’s mostly set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures a creamy texture that isn’t too dense. Cool the cheesecake fully at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it firm up beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping
Combine 1 1/2 cups crushed golden Oreos, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder in a bowl. Stir until every crumb is coated with buttery strawberry goodness. Let the mixture rest for a bit so the flavors meld perfectly before topping your cheesecake.
Step 6: Cook Strawberry Sauce
Place 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice in a small pan over medium heat. Stir and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries soften and the liquid thickens slightly. Cool this luscious strawberry sauce before drizzling it over the cheesecake chunks.
Step 7: Slice and Assemble Chunks
Lift your chilled cheesecake out of the pan and cut it into bite-sized chunks or bars. Arrange these onto a serving plate or tray, ready to be dressed with your topping and sauce.
Step 8: Finish with Toppings and Serve
Drizzle the cooled strawberry sauce over each chunk, scatter the strawberry crunch topping generously, and zigzag melted white chocolate over the whole masterpiece. If you want extra texture and flair, sprinkle additional strawberry crunch on top before serving.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
Garnishes
The charm of Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe lies in the final touches. Garnishing with fresh strawberry slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a sprig of mint adds visual appeal and a hint of refreshing flavor that complements the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Light and fruity side dishes, such as a mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a scoop of tangy sorbet, pair wonderfully with these cheesecake chunks. They balance the sweetness and keep the dessert experience refreshing and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cheesecake chunks in mini mason jars layered with strawberry sauce and whipped cream for an elevated presentation. Alternatively, place them on decorative skewers for an easy-to-eat party treat, or pair them with a glass of sparkling rosé to celebrate in style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy these treats without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, freeze the cheesecake chunks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to one month and thaw quickly in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Because these are best enjoyed cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply let frozen chunks thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the cheesecake’s texture and delightful crunch topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs provide a classic base, crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate cookies can be great alternatives to suit your flavor preference.
What can I substitute for freeze-dried strawberries?
If you can’t find freeze-dried strawberries, strawberry Jell-O powder works wonderfully to give that intense strawberry flavor and some color to your crunch topping.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim to err on the side of a little jiggle.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap out the graham cracker crumbs and golden Oreos for gluten-free versions available at most stores. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake into chunks?
For clean edges, use a sharp knife warmed by running it under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps prevent crumbling and keeps the chunks looking neat.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both fun to make and utterly delectable, delivering creamy, crunchy, and fruity layers in every bite. I promise once you try these, they’ll become one of your favorite ways to enjoy cheesecake, perfect for sharing with your favorite people or savoring all on your own.
Print
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus 4 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks, featuring a creamy baked cheesecake layer atop a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a crunchy strawberry and golden Oreo crumble, fresh strawberry sauce, and a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect as bite-sized desserts or a charming plated treat.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 1/2 cups Golden Oreo cookies, crushed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder
Strawberry Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Toppings
- White chocolate, melted, for drizzling
- Extra 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 thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Form Graham Cracker Crust: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and damp. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Bake Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping: In a bowl, mix the crushed Golden Oreo cookies, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder until well coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook Strawberry Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes until the fruit softens and the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool completely.
- Slice and Assemble Chunks: Once the chilled cheesecake is firm, lift it from the pan using the parchment paper and chop it into squares or bars of desired size. Arrange the chunks on a serving plate or tray.
- Finish with Toppings: Spoon a bit of cooled strawberry sauce over each cheesecake chunk. Sprinkle a generous amount of the prepared strawberry crunch topping on top. Drizzle melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over each piece, and add extra strawberry crunch sprinkle if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the cheesecake chunks chilled. They make perfect bite-sized treats for parties or a delightful plated dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to make mixing easier and to achieve a smooth cheesecake texture.
- For best results, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight so it sets properly and slices cleanly.
- Freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder can be used interchangeably in the crunch topping depending on preference and availability.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, adjust the sugar quantities slightly to taste.
- Use parchment paper to easily lift out the cheesecake from the pan without breaking the crust.
