Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cups are layered no-bake desserts featuring creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberry sauce, and a nostalgic strawberry crunch topping. Inspired by classic strawberry crunch ice cream bars, these individual cups combine silky texture, sweet berry flavor, and buttery crunch in every spoonful. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or make-ahead desserts, they deliver beautiful presentation with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Crust Layer
- 1½ cups crushed vanilla sandwich cookies or graham crackers
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
For the Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 cup crushed vanilla sandwich cookies
- ½ cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, mix crushed cookies with melted butter until evenly coated and sandy in texture. Spoon about 2 tablespoons into the bottom of each serving cup and press lightly to form the base.
Step 2: Make Strawberry Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook 5–8 minutes until softened and syrupy. Cool completely before layering.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Fold whipped cream gently into cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble Layers
Pipe or spoon cheesecake filling over crust layer. Add a spoonful of strawberry sauce. Repeat layers if cups are deep, ending with cheesecake filling on top.
Step 5: Prepare Crunch Topping
Mix crushed cookies, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until crumbly and evenly coated.
Step 6: Finish and Chill
Top each cup with strawberry crunch and a drizzle of strawberry sauce. Refrigerate at least 1–2 hours before serving to set layers.
Variations
- Add white chocolate chips into cheesecake filling for extra sweetness
- Replace strawberries with raspberries or mixed berries for different fruit flavor
- Use chocolate cookies instead of vanilla for chocolate-strawberry twist
- Add a thin layer of strawberry jam between layers for stronger berry taste
- Swirl strawberry puree directly into cheesecake filling for marbled effect
- Make in mini dessert shooters for party platters or catering trays
- Add lemon zest to cheesecake layer for bright citrus contrast
Cooking Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best creamy texture and stability
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in filling
- Whip cream to stiff peaks so filling holds structure in cups
- Cool strawberry sauce completely before layering to prevent melting filling
- Adjust sugar in sauce depending on strawberry sweetness level
- Press crust gently so it stays crumbly but holds base shape
- Chill assembled cups long enough for clean layered presentation
- Add crunch topping close to serving time to maintain crisp texture
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled straight from refrigerator for clean layers and creamy bite
- Garnish with fresh strawberry halves for elegant presentation
- Add whipped cream rosettes for bakery-style look
- Serve in clear cups or glasses to showcase beautiful layers
- Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for balanced sweetness
- Arrange on dessert trays for parties or baby showers
- Top with extra strawberry drizzle right before serving
Tips
- Pipe cheesecake filling using piping bag for neat layered look
- Taste strawberry sauce and adjust sugar before cooling
- Chill mixing bowl before whipping cream for faster volume
- Use uniform cup size for consistent portioning
- For transport, assemble cups without topping and add just before serving
- Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days
- Avoid freezing assembled cups as texture may separate
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for crunch without moisture
Prep Time / Chill Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 420 per cup
Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 46g
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance and add crunch topping before serving.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain before cooking into sauce.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?
Yes, substitute equal amount for quicker preparation.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cups are creamy, fruity, and irresistibly crunchy with beautiful layered presentation and nostalgic flavor. These easy no-bake desserts are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or make-ahead treats that look impressive and taste delicious in every spoonful.