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Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites capture the perfect balance of creamy filling and crispy exterior in a fun bite sized dessert that is great for any occasion. With a no bake approach that allows you to prepare them quickly and easily these treats combine the nostalgic flavor of strawberry crunch with the rich texture of cheesecake. Their vibrant pink coating and smooth interior make them irresistible both to kids and adults alike.
I first made these for my niece's birthday party and was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Now they are a staple at all our spring and summer family gatherings always bringing smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: full fat creates a tangy creamy base and using brick style blocks offers richness
- Powdered sugar: sweetens smoothly and sifting it ensures no lumps for the creamiest texture
- Vanilla extract: enhances overall flavor with its pure fragrant notes
- Heavy whipping cream: adds airiness and lightness when whipped use chilled for best results
- Golden Oreos: provide the signature crunchy coating choose freshly opened packs for maximum crispness
- Strawberry gelatin powder: gives a sweet berry flavor and vibrant color or substitute with crushed freeze dried strawberries for a natural twist
- Melted butter: binds the crunchy coating together unsalted butter keeps the sweetness balanced
Instructions
- Make the Crunch Coating:
- In a mixing bowl combine crushed Golden Oreos with strawberry gelatin powder. Stir in melted butter with a fork until the mixture feels like moist sand and clumps together slightly. This creates the crunchy outer layer that adds texture and visual appeal.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until fluffy and light. Add vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar mixing until completely smooth with no lumps. This creates a luscious creamy base to hold the whipped cream.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a separate chilled bowl whip the cold heavy cream using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Lift the beaters to check that the cream holds its shape without looking grainy essential for a light filling.
- Combine and Shape:
- Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture using broad sweeping motions to preserve airiness. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling fluffy. Scoop bite sized balls with a cookie scoop or your hands and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the Cheesecake Balls:
- Place the shaped balls in the freezer for twenty to thirty minutes until firm but not frozen solid. This chills the bites making them easier to coat in the crunchy mixture.
- Coat and Serve:
- Roll each cheesecake ball in the strawberry Oreo crumble pressing gently so the coating sticks evenly all around. Arrange them back on the baking sheet and refrigerate until serving.
My favorite part has to be the crunchy coating which adds exciting texture to the creamy cheesecake inside. It reminds me of classic strawberry ice cream bars from childhood but better because it is homemade and feels so fresh every time we eat it.
Storage Tips
Store these cheesecake bites in a single layer inside an airtight container in the fridge to keep the crunch intact. If you stack them place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage freeze the uncoated cheesecake balls for up to two weeks and add the crunch coating right before serving for the best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a different crunch try using graham crackers or vanilla wafers in place of Golden Oreos. For a natural alternative to strawberry gelatin powder crushed freeze dried strawberries work beautifully and add vibrant color and flavor. You can use light cream cheese but expect a slightly less creamy result.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bites are great on a chilled platter for baby showers birthdays or summer BBQs. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish. When serving a crowd I usually double the recipe because they disappear quickly.
These no bake strawberry crunch cheesecake bites are a quick crowd pleaser that brighten any gathering. Try doubling the batch when serving many guests.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of cookies can I use for the coating?
Golden Oreos provide a classic crunch, but vanilla wafers or graham crackers are excellent alternatives for texture variation.
- → Can I substitute the strawberry gelatin powder?
Yes, crushed freeze-dried strawberries make a natural alternative, enhancing both flavor and color without artificial additives.
- → How do I achieve a creamy filling texture?
Using full-fat cream cheese along with well-chilled heavy whipping cream whipped to stiff peaks ensures a smooth, rich filling.
- → How long can these bites be stored in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to three days to keep the coating crisp and the filling fresh.
- → Is it possible to prepare these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely, prepare and chill the bites a day before, then roll in the crunchy coating just before serving to maintain texture.