Can I swap out the cookies for the pink crunch topping?

Definitely! Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies can stand in for Golden Oreos. Just stick with light-colored cookies so they don't change the flavor or look.

What's the best way to keep these cheesecake squares fresh?

Pop them into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Over time, the crumbly top might soften a little, but they’ll still taste great!

Will these freeze well?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for as long as 3 months. Just leave off the crumb topping while freezing and add it later after thawing so it stays crunchy.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam?

Fresh berries wouldn’t work since they release too much liquid. Try cooking down 2 cups of chopped strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar and a tablespoon of cornstarch until thickened. Cool it first, then swirl it into your cheesecake.

When should I pull my cheesecake out of the oven?

When the middle wiggles just a little when the pan is shaken gently. The edges should firm up more, and the center will set fully as it cools.

Delicious Strawberry Crunch Squares

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Craving

Sweet cheesecake with strawberry swirls and a pink crumb topping. Baked in a large pan, sliced small, and perfect for serving at get-togethers. Reminiscent of strawberry shortcake bars we all love.

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By Ana

Updated on Thu, 05 Jun 2025 22:51:51 GMT

Crunchy Strawberry Squares | homebitesbyana.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I swap out the cookies for the pink crunch topping?: Definitely! Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies can stand in for Golden Oreos. Just stick with light-colored cookies so they don't change the flavor or look.
→ What's the best way to keep these cheesecake squares fresh?: Pop them into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Over time, the crumbly top might soften a little, but they’ll still taste great!
→ Will these freeze well?: Absolutely! You can freeze them for as long as 3 months. Just leave off the crumb topping while freezing and add it later after thawing so it stays crunchy.
→ Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam?: Fresh berries wouldn’t work since they release too much liquid. Try cooking down 2 cups of chopped strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar and a tablespoon of cornstarch until thickened. Cool it first, then swirl it into your cheesecake.
→ When should I pull my cheesecake out of the oven?: When the middle wiggles just a little when the pan is shaken gently. The edges should firm up more, and the center will set fully as it cools.

Crunchy Strawberry Squares

Squares of smooth cheesecake with swirls of strawberry and a crumbly pink topping. Soft, sweet, and made for sharing at gatherings or anytime you want something special.

Prep Time

25 min

Cooking Time

45 min

Total Time

70 min

By: Ana

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yields: 24 Servings (24 squares)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Crust Ingredients

01 6 tablespoons melted butter

02 2 cups of crushed graham crackers

03 1/4 cup of white sugar

→ Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

04 3 large eggs

05 2 teaspoons of vanilla

06 24 ounces of softened cream cheese

07 1 cup of sugar

08 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

09 1/2 cup of sour cream

→ Strawberry Swirl Mix

10 1 cup of strawberry jam or pie filling

→ Strawberry Crunch Topping

11 4 tablespoons of melted butter

12 1 small (3 oz) box of strawberry gelatin mix

13 20 crushed Golden Oreo cookies

Steps

Step 01

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into a 9x13 dish and stick it in the oven for 8 minutes. Cool it completely.

Step 02

Blend the cream cheese with the sugar until it’s smooth. Beat in the eggs one by one, then stir in vanilla, sour cream, and flour. Spread the batter over the crust.

Step 03

Spoon the strawberry filling over the cheesecake batter. Swirl it with a knife or toothpick for a pretty pattern.

Step 04

Pop it in the oven for 40-45 minutes. The center should wiggle a bit when you tap it. Let it cool for half an hour, then refrigerate for 4 hours or more.

Step 05

Toss together the crushed Oreos, gelatin mix, and melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top once the cheesecake is chilled.

Step 06

Cut into bite-sized squares and savor these creamy, crunchy strawberry squares!

Notes

These bite-sized treats are a twist on those iconic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.
It’s better to let this chill overnight before adding the crumbly topping.