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
