Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks

These creamy, no-bake cheesecake squares are topped with a buttery strawberry crunch for the perfect sweet-tart bite! Inspired by the nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, but in easy, shareable form.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No water bath needed – Simple baking, no fuss
Creamy + crunchy – Silky cheesecake meets buttery crumb topping
Strawberry in every bite – Fresh purée in the filling and fruity crumbs
Perfect for parties – Cut into squares or fun chunks


Ingredients

For the Cheesecake:

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, puréed

For the Crunch Topping:

  • 1 cup strawberry shortcake crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers + 1 tbsp strawberry powder*)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp strawberry extract (optional for extra flavor)

*🍓 *Strawberry powder* = freeze-dried strawberries blended into dust


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment (overhang for easy removal).

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

  • Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (~3 mins).
  • Mix in vanilla, then eggs one at a time.
  • Fold in sour cream and strawberry purée.

3. Bake

  • Pour into pan. Bake 30–35 mins until edges are set (center will jiggle slightly).
  • Cool 1 hour at room temp, then refrigerate 4+ hours.

4. Add the Crunch Topping

  • Mix crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and extract.
  • Sprinkle over chilled cheesecake, pressing gently.

5. Slice & Serve

  • Lift out using parchment. Cut into 16 squares or break into chunks.

Pro Tips

🍓 Boost strawberry flavor – Add 1 tbsp lemon juice to purée
🔥 Prevent cracks – Avoid overmixing after adding eggs
🧊 Chill thoroughly – Ensures clean slices


FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

✅ Yes! Thaw, drain, and purée.

2. How to store leftovers?

  • Fridge: 5 days (covered)
  • Freeze: 1 month (without topping)

3. No strawberry crumbs?

  • Make your own: Blend vanilla wafers + freeze-dried strawberries.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

✅ Use GF cookies for the crunch layer.

5. Why is my cheesecake runny?

  • Underbaked – Center should be just set at 35 mins.

Serving Suggestions

🍨 À la mode – Serve with vanilla ice cream
🎉 Party platter – Skewer chunks with toothpicks
🌞 Summer BBQ – Pair with grilled peaches


Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks are a fun twist on classic cheesecake—easy to share and packed with nostalgic flavor. Perfect for picnics, baby showers, or just because!

What’s your favorite retro dessert? Tell me below! 👇💕

Happy Baking! 🎉🍓


#Cheesecake #StrawberryDessert #NoBake #PartyFood

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