Description
Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake
A creamy and fruity dessert with a delightful crunch, perfect for strawberry lovers and special occasions!
Ingredients:
2 cups shortbread crumbs
½ cup butter
2 cups cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp orange zest
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries
1 cup whipped cream
Crispy crumble (oats, butter, sugar)
Preparation:
Combine shortbread crumbs and butter for the base; chill.
Blend cream cheese, sugar, and orange zest. Fold in whipped cream.
Alternate layers of filling, strawberries, and crumble.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
#StrawberryDreams
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cheesecake. First, line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment. Melt the ½ cup butter and mix thoroughly with the 2 cups of shortbread crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even base. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
For the filling, use an electric mixer to beat the 2 cups of cream cheese until completely smooth. Gradually add the 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 tsp of orange zest, beating until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions until no streaks remain.
Prepare the crumble topping by combining ¾ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in 4 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Bake this on a parchment-lined tray at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden. Let it cool completely. Hull and slice the 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries.
To assemble, spread half of the cream cheese filling over the chilled base. Add a layer of half the strawberry slices. Sprinkle with one-third of the crispy crumble. Repeat with the remaining filling and strawberries. Top generously with the rest of the crumble. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but a few accompaniments elevate it further. Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a few whole, fresh strawberries on the side. For a decadent touch, drizzle with a strawberry or raspberry coulis. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of lightly sweetened iced tea. For a summer party, present it as the centerpiece of a dessert table with other berry-based treats.
How-to Summary
Create a shortbread crust and chill. Make a creamy filling by blending cream cheese, sugar, zest, and folded-in whipped cream. Prepare a baked oat crumble for topping. Layer the filling with fresh strawberries and the crumble in the pan. Refrigerate for several hours to set before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly in a colander to remove excess liquid, which would make the filling runny. Pat them dry with paper towels before using.
How long does this cheesecake keep? Stored covered in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The crumble topping will soften over time but will still be delicious.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Use gluten-free shortbread cookies for the base and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free for the crumble topping.
My filling seems too soft. What went wrong? This likely means the whipped cream was under-whipped or the cheesecake didn’t chill long enough. Ensure your whipped cream forms stiff peaks, and allow for a full overnight chill for best results.
Can I use a different fruit? Certainly. Raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries would work beautifully. Adjust sugar in the filling slightly based on the tartness of the fruit you choose.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cream cheese straight from the fridge; let it soften to room temperature for a lump-free, smooth filling. Do not overmix the filling after adding the whipped cream, as this can deflate it and make the texture dense. Ensure the crumble topping is completely cool before assembling, or it will melt the creamy layers. Rushing the chilling time is the most common error; patience is key for clean slices and perfect texture.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake masterfully combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures for an unforgettable dessert. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can confidently create a stunning treat perfect for any celebration or a special family dessert. Its make-ahead nature and customizable elements make it a reliable and impressive recipe to have in your repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results of your efforts!