If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that’s rich, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to love, the strawberry cheesecake crunch cake is it. This no bake, multi layered treat combines the best of three dessert worlds: the creaminess of cheesecake, the freshness of strawberries, and the crunch of a golden cookie topping. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating a birthday, or just want something indulgent, this cake delivers major flavor with minimum effort.
It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast at potlucks and it’s also super easy to make ahead. With a little chill time and a few simple layers, you’ll have a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, Chef Lucas Benette shares a few clever tricks to make sure every layer is picture perfect and deliciously balanced.
What Is a Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Cake?
The strawberry cheesecake crunch cake is a no bake layered dessert that’s part cheesecake, part strawberry shortcake, and 100% addictive. It’s built in layers usually in a springform pan or square dish and finished with a crunchy golden topping made from cookies or crumble.
Typical Layers:
- Buttery crust or cake base usually made from crushed cookies, vanilla wafers, or golden Oreos.
- Creamy cheesecake filling no bake, made with cream cheese, whipped topping, and sugar.
- Strawberry topping can be made from fresh strawberries, jam, or a homemade sauce.
- Crunch topping a mix of crushed cookies, butter, and sometimes freeze dried strawberries.
This combination gives you a cake that’s cool, sweet, slightly tangy, and topped with just the right amount of crunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this strawberry cheesecake crunch cake is that it uses simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you need to build this no bake masterpiece:
Crust (Bottom Layer):
- 2 cups crushed Golden Oreos or vanilla wafers
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Strawberry Topping:
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Or use ¾ cup of your favorite store bought strawberry jam as a shortcut.
Crunch Topping:
- 10 Golden Oreos, crushed
- ½ cup freeze dried strawberries, crushed
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Chef Lucas Benette’s Method for Perfect Layers
Chef Lucas Benette believes the secret to a great layered dessert lies in texture contrast and chill time. Here are his signature strategies for mastering this cake:
1. Press the Crust Firmly
Use a measuring cup to evenly press the crust mixture into your pan. This keeps it from crumbling when sliced.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese Until Smooth
Always start with softened cream cheese, and beat it until it’s silky before adding sugar or whipped topping. This creates a fluffier, smoother cheesecake layer.
3. Chill Between Layers
After spreading the cheesecake layer, chill it for 20–30 minutes before adding the strawberry topping. This helps layers set and prevents bleeding.
4. Sprinkle Crunch Just Before Serving
To keep the topping crisp, add the crunch layer last right before serving. This way, it stays light and crumbly, not soggy.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Cake (Step by Step)
This dessert comes together in layers, each one chilled to perfection. Follow these simple steps for the ultimate strawberry cheesecake crunch cake experience.
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Crush your Golden Oreos or vanilla wafers in a food processor or zip top bag.
- Mix with melted butter and optional sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan or square dish.
- Place in the fridge to chill while you make the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula until light and fluffy.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the crust layer.
- Chill for 30 minutes or until slightly firm.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Topping
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Stir until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Cool to room temperature, then spread over the cheesecake layer.
- Chill the entire cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Add the Crunch Topping
- Just before serving, combine crushed cookies, freeze dried strawberries, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Sprinkle generously over the top of the cake.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Remove cake from pan carefully.
- Use a sharp knife cleaned between slices for the best presentation.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or mint, if desired.
Nutrition Facts Per Slice
(Based on 1 slice out of a 12 slice 9” round cake)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Sugars | 29g |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Sodium | 310mg |
Tip: For a lighter version, use low fat cream cheese and reduced sugar jam.
FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Cake
1. What to put on a strawberry cheesecake crunch cake?
The best toppings include a generous layer of crushed Golden Oreos and freeze dried strawberries mixed with a bit of melted butter. You can also add:
- Fresh strawberry slices
- A drizzle of white chocolate
- Mint leaves for garnish
These add texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
2. What goes well with strawberry cheesecake?
Strawberry cheesecake pairs well with:
- Fresh berries or berry compote
- A light whipped cream topping
- Graham crackers or cookie crumbs for crunch
- Drinks like sparkling water, rosé wine, or iced tea
A fruity or creamy contrast enhances the richness of the cake.
3. What cheese is best for cheesecake?
Cream cheese is the classic and most widely used cheese for cheesecake because of its smooth texture and slightly tangy flavor. For a lighter version, you can mix in:
- Mascarpone cheese for a richer taste
- Ricotta cheese for a fluffy texture
But for this recipe, full fat cream cheese gives the best consistency.
4. What is a strawberry cheesecake crunch cake?
A strawberry cheesecake crunch cake is a no bake layered dessert made of:
- A cookie or graham cracker crust
- A creamy cheesecake filling
- A sweet strawberry topping
- A crunchy topping made from crushed cookies and freeze dried strawberries
It’s chilled until firm and served cold. This cake is perfect for parties, birthdays, or anytime you want something creamy, fruity, and fun.
Final Thoughts on This Dreamy Strawberry Dessert
The strawberry cheesecake crunch cake is more than just a dessert it’s a crowd pleasing, make ahead masterpiece that brings together creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and a golden crunchy topping. Best of all? No oven required.
Thanks to Chef Lucas Benette’s expert layering tips, you now know how to keep each component distinct, flavorful, and perfectly textured. Whether you’re serving it at a spring brunch or a summer cookout, this dessert always gets a second (and third) helping.
