Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cheesecake
It’s not just a cheesecake — it’s an experience.
The red velvet crust gives a subtle cocoa warmth. The filling is ultra-smooth and luxurious. The strawberry crunch topping adds playful texture. Every layer feels intentional, balanced, and indulgent without being heavy. One slice turns into two before you even realize it.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Baking Time: 60 minutes
- Cooling & Chilling Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: About 6 hours 25 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (for water bath)
- Food processor or zip bag + rolling pin
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 24 red velvet Oreos (or regular Oreos + 1 tbsp cocoa powder)
- 4 tbsp melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp red velvet cake mix
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 15 vanilla sandwich cookies (Golden Oreos)
- 3 tbsp strawberry gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp melted butter
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Melted white chocolate (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Crush the Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until fully combined.
Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Stir in vanilla, sour cream, heavy cream, and red velvet cake mix.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake Using a Water Bath
Place the pan inside a larger baking dish.
Pour hot water into the outer dish until it reaches about 1 inch up the sides.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the center is slightly set but still jiggles softly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour.
Then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Crunch
Crush cookies into crumbs.
Mix with strawberry gelatin powder and melted butter.
Spread onto a baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Cool completely until crisp.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake
Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake.
Sprinkle generously with strawberry crunch topping.
Decorate with fresh strawberries and drizzle white chocolate if desired.
6. Serve
Slice with a clean warm knife.
Serve cold and watch faces light up.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Always use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
- Do not overmix after adding eggs — gentle mixing prevents cracks.
- The water bath is essential for creamy texture.
- Chill overnight for the cleanest slices.
- If cracks appear, the whipped cream layer hides them beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ons
- Add a strawberry puree swirl inside the cheesecake.
- Replace Golden Oreos with vanilla wafers.
- Swap strawberry gelatin with raspberry for a tangier crunch.
- Add a thin layer of strawberry jam under the crunch topping.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Do not microwave — it softens the topping.
Approximate Nutrition per Slice
- Calories: 480
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 7g
- Sugar: 32g
(Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes better the next day.
Can I skip the water bath?
You can, but the texture won’t be as creamy and cracks may form.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Absolutely. Homemade just tastes fresher.
What if I don’t have red velvet Oreos?
Regular Oreos with a spoon of cocoa powder work perfectly.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Eggs are needed for structure. Egg substitutes may alter texture.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Red Velvet Crunch Cheesecake isn’t just dessert — it’s a celebration of texture, color, and comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that turns simple moments into sweet memories. Take your time, enjoy the process, and let your kitchen fill with anticipation.
Once you serve that first slice, you’ll understand — this cheesecake doesn’t just taste good. It feels like love on a plate.
