There are desserts you love… and then there are desserts you dream about. These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cones are most definitely the latter.
Imagine a crispy waffle or sugar cone filled to the brim with ultra-creamy, no-bake cheesecake filling. Now picture that layered with juicy strawberry preserves, fresh berries, and topped with that iconic strawberry shortcake crunch topping—you know the one from childhood ice cream bars? Yup, that one.
It’s a nostalgic throwback meets elegant dessert bar meets pure strawberry joy.
I first made these when I needed a quick dessert for a baby shower—something handheld, pretty, and easy to serve. I didn’t want to fuss with mini cheesecakes or a big cake, so I took my go-to no-bake cheesecake recipe, spooned it into waffle cones, and added layers of strawberry jam and shortcake crumbles. People went crazy for them. Like, ask-for-seconds-before-the-first-bite-was-finished kind of crazy.
Now, they’re a staple anytime I need a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make ahead. They’re sweet, creamy, crunchy, fruity, and so fun to eat—like a cheesecake sundae you can hold in your hand.
Whether you’re planning a party, treating your family, or just need a moment of pure strawberry cheesecake joy, these cones are the answer.
Let’s make ‘em!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cones are the treat you didn’t know you needed—but now can’t stop thinking about:
- No-bake & no fuss: No oven, no water baths, no cracking cheesecake tops. Just mix, layer, and enjoy.
- Perfectly portable: Handheld desserts = party win. No plates or forks required!
- Ridiculously creamy: The no-bake cheesecake filling is smooth, fluffy, and rich without being too heavy.
- That crunch topping though: Sweet, nostalgic strawberry shortcake vibes with every bite.
- Customizable: Swap in different jams, cone types, or even chocolate drizzle.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep all the parts in advance and assemble before serving.
- Visually stunning: They’re pretty enough for a dessert table but easy enough for a casual cookout.
Each bite gives you creamy cheesecake filling, fruity strawberry layers, crunchy topping, and that perfect cone crispness. It’s like your favorite strawberry dessert got a major glow-up.
Perfect for baby showers, birthday parties, picnics, or just a weeknight treat because you deserve it. These cones are next-level indulgent and so simple to make. Let’s break it down!
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes for firmer filling
- Total Time: 20–50 minutes
- Servings: 8 cones
Nutrition per cone (approximate):
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 40g
- Sugar: 27g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the cheesecake filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
For the strawberry layer:
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries
For the strawberry crunch topping:
- 10 Golden Oreos
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Tip: No freeze-dried strawberries? Use strawberry gelatin powder (just a sprinkle) for that pink color and flavor.
For assembly:
- 8 waffle or sugar cones
- Optional: Extra whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, or white chocolate drizzle for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crunch Topping
- In a food processor, pulse:
- 10 Golden Oreos
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- Drizzle in 1 tbsp melted butter, and pulse until coarse crumbles form.
Don’t over-process—you want texture, not powder!
Set aside or store in an airtight container if making ahead.
2. Whip the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Beat until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fluffy.
Want to pipe it into the cones? Transfer filling to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
3. Prep the Strawberry Layer
- In a small bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1/2 cup chopped strawberries
You can use just preserves or jam, but the fresh berries make it extra special!
4. Assemble the Cones
Here’s how to build the perfect cone:
- Line the inside of each cone with a little strawberry preserves.
- Pipe or spoon in cheesecake filling, filling about halfway.
- Add a dollop of strawberry layer.
- Fill to the top with more cheesecake filling.
- Top generously with strawberry crunch topping.
- Optional: Add a swirl of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice or white chocolate drizzle.
Want extra crunch? Dip the rims of the cones in melted white chocolate and coat with crunch topping before filling!
5. Chill or Serve
- Serve immediately for a soft, creamy texture.
- Or, chill for 30 minutes for a firmer, more set filling (great for transporting or party trays).
How to Serve
These cones are perfect as-is, but here are a few fun ways to serve them:
- Dessert board-style: Arrange on a tray with fresh berries, chocolate-dipped pretzels, and mini cupcakes.
- Mini party cones: Use mini waffle cones and pipe in smaller portions for bite-sized treats.
- With extra toppings: Think whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup.
Want to keep them upright? Place each cone in a short plastic cup or a cone stand (available online or at party stores).
Pro Tip: For a fun twist, freeze them for 15 minutes before serving for a semi-frozen, ice-cream-like texture!
Tips for Success
- Use softened cream cheese: It whips smoother and blends easily with powdered sugar and whipped cream.
- Chill your bowl before whipping cream: Cold tools = fluffier whipped cream every time.
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for the best crunch topping: They add natural flavor and that pretty pink color.
- Keep cones from getting soggy: Chill the filling first and fill cones right before serving for best texture.
- Make-ahead options: You can prep all components in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
These cones are so customizable! Try these fun spins:
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Cones
- Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with chocolate chips.
Strawberry Lemonade Cones
- Add 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice to the filling.
- Use lemon Oreos in the crunch topping.
Birthday Cake Version
- Add rainbow sprinkles to the filling.
- Swap in Golden Oreos + a dash of almond extract for a birthday cake vibe.
Coconut Strawberry Cones
- Use coconut whipped cream.
- Add shredded coconut to the crunch topping.
Cookies & Cream Twist
- Use regular Oreos for the crunch layer and swirl crushed cookies into the filling.
You can also swap in blueberries, raspberries, or peach preserves for new flavor combos!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To store assembled cones:
- Best served immediately or within 2 hours.
- If needed, place cones upright in a container and store in the fridge for up to 6 hours. The cones may soften slightly over time.
Make-ahead tips:
- Make the cheesecake filling and crunch topping up to 2 days in advance.
- Store filling in a sealed container in the fridge, and crunch topping at room temp.
- Assemble just before serving for best results.
Want to freeze them? You can freeze assembled cones for a cool, frozen dessert. Just thaw 10–15 minutes before eating.
Special Equipment
You don’t need anything fancy, but here’s what helps:
- Electric mixer: To whip the cream and beat the filling smooth.
- Piping bag or zip-top bag: For easy, neat filling.
- Food processor: For making crunch topping in seconds.
- Cone holder or mini cups: To keep cones upright if serving for a party.
No food processor? Just crush Oreos and strawberries in a zip bag with a rolling pin!
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes! Just gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture for a shortcut.
2. What if I don’t have freeze-dried strawberries?
Use strawberry gelatin powder (just 1 tbsp) with crushed Oreos for a similar look and flavor.
3. Can I use graham cracker cones?
Absolutely! Graham cones, pretzel cones, or even mini bowls work great.
4. Can I make this filling keto or low sugar?
Yes—use a keto-friendly powdered sweetener and low-sugar preserves. Use almond flour or low-carb cookies for the crunch layer.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yep! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
6. Can I make them ahead for a party?
Yes, but assemble shortly before serving to keep the cones from getting soggy. Keep everything cold and crisp until go-time!
7. Can I make this as a cheesecake cup or trifle instead?
Yes! Layer the components in mini cups or a trifle dish for a scoopable version.
8. How long do they last in the fridge?
Assembled cones are best eaten within a few hours. The filling will stay good for 2–3 days in the fridge.
9. What if my filling is too runny?
Whip your cream to stiff peaks and chill the filling for 30 minutes. It’ll firm up beautifully.
10. How do I keep the cones from tipping?
Use a cone stand, short plastic cups, or muffin tins lined with paper towels to help balance them upright.
Conclusion
And there you have it—your new favorite no-bake summer dessert: Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cones. They’re easy to make, crazy satisfying, and totally customizable for any party or craving. Creamy, fruity, crunchy, nostalgic… all the good dessert vibes in one delicious cone.
Whether you’re making them for a birthday bash, BBQ, girls’ night, or just a little end-of-the-week treat, these cones always steal the show. They look like something from a fancy dessert shop, but you made them at home (with zero baking and minimal effort!).
If you try them, tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your sweet creations!
