Let’s talk about dessert. What is a dessert that tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen? Is it possible to throw together a kitchen in 20 minutes? I’m talking about my absolute go-to: a tadNo-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!What’s like a strawberry shortcake and cheesecake had sex and that baby was born miraculously? Without needing to be baked. If you’re a fan of the Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake bars from your childhood (and who isn’t) then what are you doing wrong? What is the perfect summer treat?
What is no bake strawberry crunch cheesecake?
So, what *is* this magical creation? Think of it as a layered dessert masterpiece. We start with a buttery, crunchy base, similar to the coating on those iconic Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream bars. Then, we layer on a creamy, dreamy no-bake cheesecake filling – it’s rich, tangy, and oh-so-smooth. Finally, we top it all off with even *more* of that irresistible strawberry crunch. It’s essentially a cheesecake that skipped the oven, making it the perfect treat for warm weather or when you just can’t be bothered with turning on the oven (which, let’s be honest, is most days for me!). It’s simple, impressive, and totally customizable. I even tried making it once with raspberries and it was amazing as well.
Why do I love this recipe?
Let me tell you, there are a million reasons to fall head-over-heels for this recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. You’ve got the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries, the creamy tang of the cheesecake, and that satisfying buttery crunch that ties it all together. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes! But beyond the flavor, the simplicity is what really seals the deal. This is genuinely one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever make. No finicky water baths, no worrying about cracks – just mix, layer, and chill. Plus, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. The ingredients are all pretty standard and easy to find at any grocery store. I often make this when I have friends over because it looks so good and feels like it took more effort than it did.
What do you love about this movie?No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake! is its versatility. You can serve it in individual cups for a party, make a full-sized cheesecake for a special occasion, or even adapt it into mini-bites for a quick and easy snack. If you’re a fan of other no-bake desserts like chocolate lasagna or Oreo cheesecake, trust me, this one will be right up your alley. But unlike those, this one has that delightful strawberry crunch that really sets it apart!
How do I make no bake strawberry crunch cheesecake?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to Make a decadent treat? What is the recipe for strawberry crunch topping? How do I make no bake cheesecake filling? Individual servings. What’s the best part? I don’t need any fancy equipment, and the whole thing comes together in under an hour (not a lot of time). What is the best time to chill out with friends?
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping: Is there a recipe
- 1 12 cups Golden Oreo cookies, finely crushed (about 36 cookies). I love using Golden Oreos for the color and flavor, but regular oreops would also work if that’s the case.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted. Make sure it’s completely melted, but not browned.
- 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry gelatin powder. What gives strawberry that iconic flavor and color? Jell-o is my go-to brand, but any brand will work.
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed. Don’t skip this! It intensifies the strawberry flavor so much.
How do I make no-bake cheesecake filling?
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened. This is KEY! If cream cheese isn’t softened, you’ll end up with lumpy filling.
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk. This adds sweetness and creaminess. Don’t use evaporated milk!
- What is vanilla extract?
- 1/4 cup lemon juice. Brightens up the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks. This is what makes the filling light and airy.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, melted butter, strawberry gelatin powder, and salt. Set aside. How do you crush freeze-dried Mix well until everything is evenly coated. This mixture will smell amazing, and it’s seriously hard to resist eating it straight out of the package.
Step 2: Make the No-Bake Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the Cream Cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. What are lumps?
Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the Cream Cheese, mixing on low speed until well. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice. Stir well.
Step 4: Fold in Whipped Cream
Gently fold in the Whipped Cream until just combined. If you overmix, you’ll deflate the whipped cream and lose that light and airy texture.
Step 5: Add Strawberries
Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries. I like to reserve a few strawberries for garnish, but that’s totally optional.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake
If you’re making individual servings, layer the strawberry crunch topping and cheesecake filling in a large bowl. What are the best small bowls to serve? If you’re making a cheesecake, press about half of the strawberry crunch mixture into the shell. What is the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan? Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, and then sprinkle the remaining strawberry crunch over top. Top over the top.
Step 7: Chill
Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to cool completely. Set completely. This is the hardest part, I know, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 8: Serve
Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the refrigerator and slice (if using a springform pan). Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve immediately. Prepare for rave reviews!
What should I serve it with?
This No Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!What are some of the best ideas for taking a business to the next level?
For Breakfast:Is cheesecake good for breakfast? Strong coffee is a great way to start the day.
For Brunch:Serve individual servings in elegant glasses as part of a brunch spread. What are some festive ways to serve a glass of sparkling cider with Ice Cream?
As Dessert:What is the obvious choice? After dinner, a slice of cheesecake is the perfect ending to any meal. What would be good after grilled chicken or pasta?
For Cozy Snacks:I actually love having this with a cup of herbal tea. The sweetness of cheesecake balances out the bitterness. My family loves to enjoy this during movie night or just when we are hanging out after dinner.
One year for Easter, I made mini versions in mason jars and everyone loved them! What are some of the best desserts?
How do you make a no bake strawberry cheesecake?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that will help you make the absolute best No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.
Cream Cheese is Key: I cannot stress this enough – make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before you start mixing. If it’s not soft enough, you’ll end up with a lumpy filling that’s hard to smooth out.
Don’t Overmix: When folding in the Whipped Cream, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overmixing will deflate the whipped cream and make the filling dense.
Get Creative with the Crunch: Feel free to experiment with different types of cookies for the crunch topping. Vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or even shortbread cookies would all be delicious. And if you’re not a fan of strawberries, you can easily swap them out for other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
Chill Time is Crucial: Don’t rush the chilling process! The cheesecake needs at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set properly. If you try to slice it too soon, it will be a mess.
Add a Secret Layer: Try adding a thin layer of strawberry jam or puree between the crust and the filling for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
Make it Healthier: If you want to lighten things up a bit, you can use light Cream Cheese and a sugar substitute in the filling. It won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be delicious.
Once I was out of strawberries so I used some frozen ones, and that worked great too! I recommend thawing them first and patting them dry so they don’t make the cheesecake watery.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is best enjoyed fresh, but here are some Tips for storing it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but it will still taste great.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: I usually don’t recommend freezing with a glaze on top because sometimes it cracks. So freeze it without and add fresh glaze when you are ready to serve.
My kids never let it last more than a day or two, so I don’t often have leftovers to worry about!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress without requiring a ton of effort, this is the one. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other no-bake desserts like my chocolate lasagna or my Oreo cheesecake. Happy baking (or, should I say, no-baking)! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Let me know in the comments if you make any fun variations!
No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 0.33 cup Melted butter
- 0.25 cup Sugar
Filling
- 16 oz Cream cheese Softened
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Heavy cream
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 box Strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup Boiling water
- 1 cup Cold water
- 1 cup Strawberry ice cream crunch
Instructions
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Pour the filling over the crust. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping . Let it cool then poor it over the cake . Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
