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Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

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A holiday favorite made with a creamy vanilla cheesecake base, a thick graham cracker and crunch topping crust, and a glossy strawberry compote layered generously on top—this festive dessert is as indulgent as it is stunning.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted walnuts or peanuts
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for filling)
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, chopped nuts, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of the pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
  3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  4. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
  5. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool inside for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened. Let cool completely.
  7. Spoon the cooled strawberry topping generously over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
  • Frozen strawberries work well if fresh are out of season—just thaw first.
  • Let the strawberry topping cool completely before spooning onto the cheesecake.
  • Top just before serving for the freshest presentation.

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