Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake in the Instant Pot

Looking for a decadent dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with a fun twist of strawberry crunch topping? Look no further! This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake in the Instant Pot is everything you crave—creamy, smooth, and topped with a crunchy strawberry topping that’s simply irresistible! 🍓✨

The Instant Pot makes this recipe so easy and quick, giving you a perfect cheesecake without the stress of a traditional oven-baked method. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in a treat, this cheesecake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser! 😍

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake 🍓

✅ Quick & Easy

With the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious cheesecake in less than an hour! No need for a long wait or complicated steps.

✅ Creamy & Rich

The texture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Each bite melts in your mouth, giving you that ultimate cheesecake satisfaction. 😋

✅ Fun Strawberry Crunch Topping

The strawberry crunch topping adds a crunchy and sweet element that perfectly complements the cheesecake’s smoothness. 🍓

✅ Perfect for Any Occasion

From birthdays to casual get-togethers, this cheesecake is ideal for any celebration or just as a dessert after dinner. 🎉

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Key Ingredients & Substitutions 🛒

To create this gorgeous cheesecake, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 🧀 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 🍯 1 cup granulated sugar
• 🥚 2 large eggs
• 🍦 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• 🍋 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 🍓 1/2 cup strawberry puree (use fresh or frozen strawberries)

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 🍓 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed)
• 🧈 1/4 cup melted butter
• 🍪 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos (or Graham crackers)

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Step-by-Step Instructions 👨‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1️⃣ Softening the Cream Cheese
Make sure your cream cheese is softened. This helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients for a creamy texture.

2️⃣ Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract. 🍦

3️⃣ Add Strawberry Puree
Gently fold in the strawberry puree into the cheesecake mixture. This will give the cheesecake a beautiful pink hue and a fresh fruity flavor. 🍓

💡 Pro Tip: To avoid lumps, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.

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Step 2: Prepare the Crust (Optional)

1️⃣ Crust Preparation
For the crust, you can use crushed golden Oreos or graham crackers for a delicious buttery base. Combine the crushed cookies with melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of your cheesecake pan. This step is optional if you want a crust-free cheesecake, but it adds a nice texture contrast.

2️⃣ Press and Set
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan and refrigerate it while you prepare the rest of the cheesecake. 🥶

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Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake in the Instant Pot

1️⃣ Grease Your Pan
Before adding your cheesecake mixture, make sure to grease your Instant Pot-safe cheesecake pan with cooking spray to ensure it doesn’t stick.

2️⃣ Pour the Cheesecake Mixture
Once your cheesecake filling is prepared, pour it into the prepared pan. Smooth the top for an even finish.

3️⃣ Prepare the Instant Pot
Add 1 1/2 cups of water to the bottom of your Instant Pot to create steam. Place the trivet inside the pot and carefully lower the cheesecake pan onto the trivet.

💡 Pro Tip: You can also cover your cheesecake pan with aluminum foil to prevent any condensation from dripping onto the cheesecake.

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Step 4: Cook the Cheesecake

1️⃣ Set the Instant Pot
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 35 minutes. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.

2️⃣ Check for Doneness
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the Instant Pot. It should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. This is perfectly normal and will firm up as it cools.

3️⃣ Cool the Cheesecake
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge. Chill for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results) to allow it to fully set. 🥶

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Step 5: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

1️⃣ Crush the Freeze-Dried Strawberries
In a small bowl, crush the freeze-dried strawberries into small pieces. You can use a food processor for a finer texture or crush them by hand for larger chunks. 🍓

2️⃣ Combine with Crushed Cookies
Mix the crushed strawberries with the crushed golden Oreos (or graham crackers) and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well-coated and has a crumbly texture.

3️⃣ Top the Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake is completely chilled, generously sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping over the top. Press it lightly to help it stick. 🍓

💡 Pro Tip: You can store the topping separately until you’re ready to serve, to keep it extra crunchy.

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Serving Suggestions 🍴

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is perfect for any occasion, and here are some fun ways to serve it:

• 🍰 Individual Slices: Cut into beautiful slices and serve as a perfect after-dinner treat.
• 🥂 For Special Occasions: Serve it at birthdays, holidays, or gatherings for a show-stopping dessert.
• 🍓 Topped with Fresh Strawberries: Add a few fresh strawberry slices for extra sweetness and color.
• 🍨 Pair with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. 🍦

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Storage & Reheating 🍽️

Storing Leftovers:

• In the Fridge: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices of cheesecake in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

To reheat the cheesecake, simply place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. However, the strawberry crunch topping will lose its crunchiness, so it’s best to add the topping fresh when serving.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 🤔

1️⃣ Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can bake this cheesecake in a traditional oven at 325°F for about 60-70 minutes or until set.

2️⃣ What can I use if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries?

You can use fresh strawberries or strawberry jam as a substitute for the freeze-dried strawberries, but keep in mind that the texture of the topping may change.

3️⃣ How do I know when the cheesecake is fully cooked?

The cheesecake should be set around the edges and slightly wobbly in the center. It will firm up once cooled and chilled.

4️⃣ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

5️⃣ How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To avoid cracks, don’t overbake the cheesecake. Also, releasing the pressure naturally helps the cheesecake set more evenly.

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Conclusion 🍓🍰

This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake in the Instant Pot is a perfect dessert that combines the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake with the crunchy, sweet strawberry topping. With its easy-to-follow steps and quick cooking time, you’ll be able to whip up this show-stopping dessert in no time! 🎉

Whether you’re serving it at a special event or just treating yourself to something sweet, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Try it out, and let me know what you think! 😍