If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, this Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe is pure magic. With a luscious, creamy filling that’s perfectly balanced by a crisp, golden cookie crust and topped with a fun, crunchy strawberry layer, every bite feels like a celebration. The best part? You don’t need to fire up the oven, making it an ideal treat to prepare ahead for gatherings or those cozy nights in. Trust me when I say this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe relies on simple ingredients that come together to create an impressive flavor and texture combination. Each component has a special role, from the buttery crust that forms the sturdy base to the creamy, silky filling and the signature crunchy topping that adds an irresistible twist.
- Golden Oreos, crushed (2 sleeves + 18 for topping): Provides that buttery, crisp base and a sweet, crunchy topping with classic cookie flavor.
- Nilla Vanilla Wafers, crushed (1 cup): Adds a delicate vanilla note and texture layer to the crust.
- Unsalted butter, melted (6 tbsp + 4 tbsp): Binds the crust and topping ingredients together, giving richness and helping everything hold shape.
- Cream cheese, softened (24 oz.): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, delivering the smooth, tangy, velvety filling you expect.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling with a fine texture that won’t weigh it down.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds an extra touch of sweetness to the cream cheese mixture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and keeps the filling silky.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic depth.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 1/2 cups): Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the filling, making it airy and luscious.
- Strawberry gelatin powder (3 oz. box): Key ingredient in the crunchy topping that delivers that vibrant strawberry flavor and a fun texture contrast.
- Whipped cream: For the finishing touch, adding fluff and visual appeal.
- Fresh strawberries: Garnish with natural sweetness and a pop of color to brighten every slice.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the two sleeves of crushed Golden Oreos with the crushed Nilla Vanilla Wafers and six tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of an 8 or 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper. This cookie crust will form the irresistible base that’s both crispy and buttery, holding all the creamy layers perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for two minutes until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and granulated sugar, continuing to beat until silky and well combined. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract for that extra tangy sweetness and aroma. Transfer this mixture to a separate bowl and give your original bowl a quick rinse—now whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, airy filling that’s absolutely dreamy.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious cream cheese mixture over your prepared crust, smoothing it down with a spatula for an even surface. Cover and place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and the filling set firmly yet creamy, ready for the crunch topping.
Step 4: Add the Crunch Topping and Finish
While your cheesecake chills, prepare the crunchy strawberry layer by combining the 18 crushed Golden Oreos with four tablespoons of melted butter and the strawberry gelatin powder. This creates a delightful topping that’s both sweet and slightly tangy with a crisp texture. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake, then pipe dollops of whipped cream and decorate with fresh strawberries for a beautiful, irresistible finish. Slice, serve, and watch how everyone’s eyes light up with the first bite!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
For serving the Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe, fresh strawberries are a must—they add natural sweetness and a juicy burst that perfectly complements the creamy filling and crunchy topping. A swirl or rosette of freshly whipped cream adds an elegant touch and a luxurious mouthfeel with every forkful.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides such as a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of lemon sorbet. These sides enhance the strawberry and creamy notes without overpowering the dessert, making for a well-rounded and satisfying holiday or casual meal finale.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving individual mini versions of this cheesecake in clear glass jars or parfait glasses, layering the crust, filling, and crunch topping. It turns serving into a fun experience and is perfect for parties or potlucks. You can also drizzle a warm berry coulis over each slice for extra fruity drama and color contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container or keep it covered in the springform pan with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors. Make sure to protect it well from other fridge odors.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully if you want to make it in advance or save some for later indulgence. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy its full creamy texture and taste.
Reheating
Since this is a no bake cheesecake, there’s no reheating needed or recommended. Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge or after thawing if frozen, as warming it could compromise the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Golden Oreos with regular Oreos?
Absolutely! Regular Oreos will work just fine, though the cheesecake will have a richer, chocolatey base instead of the buttery vanilla flavor from Golden Oreos. It’s a delicious twist if you’re a chocolate lover.
Is it possible to use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?
While you can use reduced-fat versions, the texture and richness of the cheesecake may be slightly less creamy and indulgent. Full-fat ingredients will give you that perfect smooth consistency and flavor balance.
How long can I leave the cheesecake in the fridge before serving?
It’s best to chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to ensure it sets perfectly. You can keep it refrigerated up to 4 days before serving, but try to enjoy it sooner for the freshest taste and texture.
What can I use instead of strawberry gelatin powder?
If you don’t have strawberry gelatin powder, you could try raspberry or cherry gelatin for a similar effect, but the distinct strawberry crunch flavor will be missing. Alternatively, fresh strawberry pieces could be added to a clear gelatin mix for a natural topping.
Can I make this cheesecake without the crunchy topping?
Yes! The crunchy topping is optional but highly recommended because it gives a wonderful texture contrast and flavor boost. If you skip it, consider adding some fresh strawberry slices or a drizzle of strawberry sauce to keep things exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s deceptively simple but incredibly impressive with its balance of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet weekend treat, this cheesecake brings joy with every slice. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own beloved classic.
Print
Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 6h 40m
- Cook Time: 0m
- Total Time: 6h 40m
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Crunch No Bake Cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert combining a crunchy Oreo and vanilla wafer crust with a smooth whipped cream cheese filling. Topped with a delightful golden Oreo crunch and fresh strawberries, it’s a refrigerated treat that requires no baking and is perfect for warm weather or quick preparation.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 sleeves Golden Oreos, crushed
- 1 cup Nilla Vanilla Wafers, crushed
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Crunch Topping
- 18 Golden Oreos, coarsely crushed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 oz box strawberry gelatin powder
Garnish
- Whipped cream, for piping
- Handful of fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed Nilla Vanilla wafers, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of an 8” or 9” springform pan lined with parchment paper, creating an even crust layer.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Using a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed for two minutes until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and granulated sugar, beating well until fully combined and smooth. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until incorporated. Transfer this mixture to a separate medium bowl.
- Whip the cream: In the original mixing bowl (cleaned), beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined, keeping the mixture light and airy.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan and smooth the surface with a straight edge spatula. Refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours or preferably overnight to set completely.
- Prepare the crunch topping: Combine the coarsely crushed Golden Oreos with the melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder in a small bowl, mixing well to create the crunch topping.
- Finish the cheesecake: After the cheesecake has set, sprinkle the prepared crunch topping evenly over the surface. Pipe whipped cream decoratively on top and garnish with fresh strawberries. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight to allow flavors to meld and the structure to firm up.
- You can substitute fresh raspberries or blueberries for a variation in fruit garnish.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the granulated sugar slightly in the filling.
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to cut cleaner slices of cheesecake.
