Irresistible Homemade Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with this extraordinary homemade Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake. Combining three universally adored treats—sweet strawberries, classic Oreos, and rich, creamy cheesecake—this dessert is simply magical. It’s the kind of show-stopping confection that always earns rave reviews, whether you’re bringing it to a lively party or sharing it with loved ones at a cozy gathering. As many have attested, and as highlighted in our accompanying video, this truly is the best cheesecake you’ll ever make.
There’s something inherently delightful about a dessert that marries contrasting textures and flavors so perfectly. The crunchy, chocolatey base of an Oreo crust provides an exquisite counterpoint to the silky-smooth, tangy-sweet cream cheese filling. Then, a vibrant, glistening strawberry glaze, often adorned with fresh berry halves, crowns this masterpiece, adding a burst of fresh fruitiness that brightens every bite. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, designed to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Why This Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Will Be Your New Favorite
This Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to simple ingredients creating something truly spectacular. Here’s why it’s destined to become your go-to dessert for any occasion:
- Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The timeless pairing of strawberries and cream cheese, enhanced by the iconic chocolatey crunch of Oreos, creates a symphony of flavors that is both familiar and exciting. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, rich, and fresh notes.
- Stunning Presentation: With its smooth, creamy surface, dark Oreo crust, and glistening red strawberry topping, this cheesecake is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. It photographs beautifully and will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of any dessert table.
- Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Cheesecake, especially one with such beloved additions, rarely fails to impress. It’s a guaranteed hit at birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or simply as a special treat for your family. Pair it with a fine bottle of wine, and you’ll have your party host singing your praises.
- Easier Than You Think: While cheesecake might seem intimidating, our detailed recipe and expert tips break down the process into manageable steps. Even if you’re a novice baker, you can achieve a professional-looking and tasting cheesecake with confidence.
The Magic Behind Each Delicious Layer
Every component of this Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake plays a crucial role in its overall perfection. Let’s delve into what makes each layer so special:
The Classic Oreo Crust
The foundation of this cheesecake is a simple yet supremely satisfying Oreo crust. Crushed Oreo cookies (creamy filling included!) are mixed with melted butter and pressed into the bottom of a springform pan. This creates a dense, rich, and perfectly chocolatey base that holds up beautifully and adds a delightful crunch and distinct flavor to every slice. It’s the ideal contrast to the smooth filling above it.
The Velvety Smooth Cheesecake Filling
At the heart of our cheesecake is a wonderfully rich and creamy filling. Made with softened cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, eggs, and a hint of vanilla extract, this mixture is blended to perfection. The key is to achieve a smooth consistency without overmixing, which can introduce too much air and cause cracks during baking. The sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, contributing to the signature creamy texture that cheesecake lovers adore.
The Bright Strawberry Glaze
Topping off this decadent dessert is a luscious strawberry glaze. This isn’t just for decoration; it adds a burst of fresh, fruity flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the cheesecake. Made with cornstarch, water, strawberry jelly, and a touch of red food coloring for a vibrant hue, the glaze is cooked until thick and smooth. Once cooled, it’s poured over fresh strawberries arranged on top of the chilled cheesecake, creating a dazzling, glossy finish that makes the dessert truly irresistible.
Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake
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Ingredients
Oreo Crust
- 1 package oreo cookies
- 7 tbsp unsalted melted butter
Filling
- 24 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Glaze
- 1 tbsp corn starch
- 1/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup strawberry jelly
- 1 tsp red food coloring
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 F.
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Place the Oreos into a food processor and pulse until a fine crumb.
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Add the melted butter to the Oreo crumbs, mix until well combined and press into the bottom of an 8-in. spring form pan.
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Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil, Set aside.
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For the filling, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla and mix until well incorporated.
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Add the eggs one at a time and mix until incorporated, do not overmix.
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Pour the filling over the crust.
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To prepare the water bath, place the 8-inch springform pan into a larger baking dish and pour in some boiling water, about 1 inch of water.
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Place the cheesecake in the prepared water bath in the oven and let it bake for 10 minutes.
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Ten minutes later reduce the heat to 300 F and let it bake for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Turn the oven off and let it sit in the oven for 30 minutes.
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Open the oven doors slightly and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes.
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Carefully remove cheesecake from water bath and run a knife along the sides
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Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about 1 hour and then place it in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours.
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For the strawberry glaze, add the water and corn starch to a sauce pan and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes.
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Stir in the strawberry jelly and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce is thick and lump free.
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Let the strawberry glaze cool completely and add the red food coloring.
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Decorate the cheesecake with fresh strawberries and pour the glaze over the strawberries.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Expert Tips for Cheesecake Success
Achieving a perfectly creamy, crack-free cheesecake is easier than you might think, especially with a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips to ensure your Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake turns out flawlessly every time:
- Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature: This is crucial for a smooth batter. Cold cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs will not blend properly, leading to lumps and a less consistent texture. Take them out of the refrigerator at least 1-2 hours before you start mixing.
- Do Not Overmix the Filling: Mix the cream cheese until just smooth, then incorporate other ingredients. Overmixing, especially after adding the eggs, whips too much air into the batter. This air expands during baking, causing the cheesecake to rise rapidly and then fall dramatically, leading to unsightly cracks. Mix just until combined.
- The Importance of a Water Bath (Bain-Marie): Baking cheesecake in a water bath creates a moist, even heat environment in the oven. This gentle heat helps the cheesecake bake slowly and uniformly, preventing the edges from cooking faster than the center and significantly reducing the risk of cracking. Ensure your springform pan is well-wrapped in aluminum foil to prevent any water from seeping in.
- Gradual Cooling is Key: After baking, resist the urge to immediately remove the cheesecake from the oven. Instead, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside with the door ajar. This slow cooling process prevents a sudden temperature change, which is a common cause of cracks.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cheesecake needs ample time to set properly. After cooling to room temperature, refrigerate it for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This allows the cheesecake to firm up, making it easier to slice and enhancing its rich, creamy texture and flavor.
Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions
While this Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:
Variations:
- Different Oreo Flavors: Experiment with other Oreo varieties for the crust, such as Golden Oreos, Mint Oreos (for a chocolate-mint twist!), or even peanut butter Oreos for a unique flavor profile.
- Mixed Berry Topping: Instead of just strawberries, use a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful and varied fruit topping. You can also adjust the glaze to complement these fruits.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the finished cheesecake before serving.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a brighter, more aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Spiced Crust: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg added to the Oreo crust can introduce a warm, subtle spice element.
Serving Suggestions:
- Simply Elegant: This cheesecake is rich enough to be enjoyed on its own, allowing its complex flavors to truly shine.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light, airy contrast to the dense cheesecake.
- A La Mode: Serve a slice with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Coffee or Tea Pairing: Enjoy a slice with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, espresso, or your favorite herbal tea for a sophisticated dessert experience.
- Dessert Wine: For an adult gathering, pair this cheesecake with a sweet dessert wine or a sparkling rosé to elevate the occasion.
Get Ready to Bake Your New Favorite Dessert!
This Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake recipe brings together beloved flavors in a stunning, irresistible package. It’s designed to make you feel like a star baker, producing a dessert that’s not only incredibly delicious but also visually spectacular. Whether you’re preparing it for a special celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cheesecake promises to deliver pure joy with every bite.
Don’t wait to try this fantastic recipe! Gather your ingredients, follow our detailed instructions and tips, and prepare to delight your taste buds and impress everyone around you. Happy baking!