Here’s a detailed recipe for Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks — a delightful no-bake treat that combines creamy cheesecake squares with a nostalgic strawberry shortcake crunch topping. Perfect for parties, gifting, or just indulging!
🍓 Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks Recipe
📌 Yields: ~20 bite-sized chunks
🕒 Time: 30 min active | 4–6 hours chill (or overnight)
🧾 Ingredients
🍰 For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 container whipped topping like Cool Whip)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
🍪 For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
🍓 For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 15 Golden Oreos (or any vanilla sandwich cookies)
- 1/2 packet (about 3 tbsp) strawberry Jell-O powder
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon or bottom of a glass.
- Chill in the fridge while making the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form (or skip this if using whipped topping).
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
- Spread evenly over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
3. Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- In a food processor or zip-top bag, crush Golden Oreos into coarse crumbs.
- Mix with strawberry Jell-O powder and melted butter until the mixture looks like strawberry shortcake crumbles.
- Sprinkle evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
4. Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight, until firm.
5. Slice into Chunks
- Use a sharp knife to cut into bite-sized squares or chunks. Wipe knife clean between cuts for cleaner edges.
🍽️ Serving Tips
- Serve chilled.
- Optional: Drizzle with white chocolate or fresh strawberry sauce for extra flair.
❓FAQs – Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks
🔹 Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try:
- Crushed Golden Oreos instead of graham crackers.
- A no-crust version for a lighter bite.
🔹 Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze cheesecake chunks on a tray, then transfer to an airtight container. Keeps for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
🔹 Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely. Replace the whipped cream with one 8 oz container of Cool Whip for ease and extra sweetness.
🔹 Can I use real strawberries in the topping?
Fresh or freeze-dried strawberries can be crushed and added to the topping, but the Jell-O gives that nostalgic strawberry crunch flavor. You can combine both!
🔹 How long do they last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Would you like a strawberry cheesecake bar version, individual cup servings, or a low-sugar modification?