1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine the crushed strawberry-flavored cereal, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until it sets. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the sour cream and strawberry puree until evenly incorporated.
5. Pour into Crust:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Refrigerate:
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, heat strawberry jam or preserves until melted. Allow it to cool slightly.
9. Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top of the chilled cheesecake. Drizzle the melted strawberry jam over the strawberries.
10. Optional: Garnish with Additional Cereal: – Optionally, garnish the edges of the cheesecake with additional crushed strawberry-flavored cereal for a crunchy texture.
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is a delightful and refreshing dessert, perfect for strawberry lovers. Enjoy this creamy and fruity treat!