Pink Strawberry Crunch (Printable Version)

A smooth pink cheesecake with strawberry flavor and a crumbly sweet topping that brings back memories of classic ice cream treats.

# Ingredients:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - ¼ cup butter, melted
02 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
03 - 1 ½ cups graham crackers, finely crushed

→ Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

04 - 1 cup sour cream
05 - 24 oz (3 blocks) softened cream cheese
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1 cup sugar
08 - 1 tbsp vanilla extract
09 - ¼ cup strawberry puree (use preserves if needed)
10 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
11 - 1 tbsp strawberry Jell-O powder (adds extra color and taste)

→ Strawberry Crunch Topping

12 - 2 tbsp melted butter
13 - 2 tbsp strawberry Jell-O powder
14 - 10 Golden Oreos, smashed into crumbs

→ Strawberry Drizzle

15 - 2 tbsp strawberry puree
16 - 1 tbsp milk
17 - ½ cup powdered sugar

# Steps:

01 - First, set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and brown sugar until mixed evenly. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake it for about 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
02 - Blend cream cheese and granulated sugar until super smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in sour cream, strawberry puree, Jell-O powder, flour, and vanilla until everything comes together.
03 - Carefully pour the filling over the cooled crust. Wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and place it inside a larger dish filled partway with water (this prevents cracks). Bake at 325°F for 60 to 70 minutes. The center should wiggle slightly but not feel undercooked. Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open. Let it cool for an hour before chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
04 - Mix crushed Oreos, Jell-O powder, and melted butter until it's crumbly but sticks together when pressed lightly.
05 - Stir together powdered sugar, a little strawberry puree, and milk until smooth and pourable.
06 - Scatter the crunch topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake, then drizzle on the strawberry glaze for a sweet finish.

# Notes:

01 - This dessert takes inspiration from strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.
02 - Using a water bath while baking keeps it from cracking.

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