Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
A mouthwatering dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with a crunchy granola topping and fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs For a sweet and crunchy crust.
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and binds the crust.
- 2 tbsp sugar Sweetens the crust.
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened Key ingredient for cheesecake.
- 1 cups granulated sugar Sweetens filling.
- 3 large eggs Helps bind the cheesecake.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
- 0.5 cups sour cream Adds tanginess.
- 0.25 cups all-purpose flour Provides stability.
- 0.5 cups heavy cream Makes filling creamy.
- 0.5 cups fresh strawberries, pureed Infuses flavor.
For the topping
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed Adds crunch and berry flavor.
- 0.5 cups granola Complements toppings.
- 0.25 cups melted butter Binds granola.
- 2 tbsp sugar Sweetens granola mixture.
For the optional berry sauce
- 0.5 cups fresh strawberries, chopped Enhances freshness.
- 1 tbsp sugar To sweeten sauce.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Brings brightness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper lining the bottom.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool.
Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Fold in pureed strawberries and heavy cream.
- Pour the mixture into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until slightly set. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool for an hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Topping
- Combine crushed freeze-dried strawberries, granola, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix and sprinkle over chilled cheesecake.
Optional Berry Sauce
- Combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Drizzle over the cheesecake before serving.
Notes
For creaminess, use a hand mixer and ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. Experiment with toppings such as fresh strawberries or a splash of orange zest.