Description
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad is a delightful no-bake dessert salad combining fresh strawberries with a creamy cheesecake-flavored mixture, topped with a crunchy golden cookie crumble. Perfect for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing treat that balances fruity freshness with rich creaminess and crisp textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Mixture
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
Crunch Topping
- 1 ½ cups crushed golden sandwich cookies (Golden Oreos or similar)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a bowl, combine the crushed golden sandwich cookies with melted butter until fully mixed. Spread this mixture onto a baking sheet and either let it dry at room temperature or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to crisp it up. Once done, set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until completely combined, creating a light cheesecake-flavored base.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced fresh strawberries and mini marshmallows (if using) to the cheesecake mixture. Carefully fold them in to coat the fruit and marshmallows evenly without breaking the strawberries.
- Add the Crunch & Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the prepared cookie crunch topping over the strawberry cheesecake salad. Lightly mix to distribute some of the crunch throughout, while leaving some on top for garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures.
Notes
- For a homemade whipped topping, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Allow the cookie crunch to cool completely if baked; this helps maintain its crispness when added to the salad.
- Mini marshmallows are optional but add a pleasant chewy texture contrast.
- This salad is best served immediately to enjoy the crunch; storing with the topping mixed in may result in sogginess.
- Substitute gluten-free cookies to make this dessert gluten-free.
