Strawberry Pop-Tart Cheesecake

1 1/2 cups crushed strawberry Pop-Tarts (about 4-5 Pop-Tarts)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:

4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced fresh strawberries
2-3 Strawberry Pop-Tarts, crumbled (for mixing into the batter and for topping)
For the Topping:

1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra crumbled Strawberry Pop-Tarts (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Pop-Tarts, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until fully incorporated.
Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries and crumbled Pop-Tarts.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and set.

Prepare the Topping:

In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
Garnish with additional crumbled Strawberry Pop-Tarts.

Serve:

Slice and enjoy this Strawberry Pop-Tart Cheesecake as a fun and decadent dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and your favorite childhood treat!
This cheesecake is sure to bring a smile to your face and add a playful twist to your dessert table! 🍰🍓