If you’re looking for a fun and elegant twist on classic party appetizers, you’ve got to try this Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe. Imagine fresh strawberries filled with smooth, sweetened cream cheese and topped with a golden Oreo and strawberry crumble that adds the perfect crunch. It’s fruity, creamy, and just a little bit fancy!
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I absolutely adore these Deviled Strawberries! They’re such a delightful bite at any get-together and always steal the show. The mix of creamy filling and crunchy topping keeps my guests coming back for more.
- Easy to make: Prepping these strawberry bites is straightforward and perfect for any skill level.
- Beautiful presentation: They look like little works of art on your party platter.
- Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet, creamy, fruity, and crunchy all in one bite.
- Great for gatherings: These are ideal as a light appetizer or a no-bake dessert.
Ingredients & Why They Work
When assembling this recipe, choosing fresh, quality ingredients makes all the difference. Make sure your strawberries are firm and well-sized—around 2 to 2½ inches—for that perfect deviled look and to ensure they hold the filling nicely.

- Golden Oreo cookies: These provide a subtly sweet, buttery crunch that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
- Unsalted butter: Helps bind the cookie crumbs and strawberry gelatin into a crisp topping.
- Strawberry flavored gelatin powder: Adds a lovely fruity hint and a fun pink twist to the crunch.
- Fresh large strawberries: The star of the show! Choose firm, ripe berries for the best texture and taste.
- Cream cheese: Full-fat and softened for a smooth, rich filling that complements the berries perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese without adding graininess, ensuring a silky texture.
- Heavy cream: Lightens the filling, making it fluffy and easy to pipe or dollop.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe is how easy it is to make your own! Whether you want to make it more festive, healthier, or simply customize flavors, there are plenty of fun variations to try.
- Variation: For a dairy-free option, try substituting the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream cheese. I tested this once and was pleasantly surprised how well it held its creamy texture while still complementing the crunch topping.
- Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest or a splash of liqueur to the cream cheese filling for a bright citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the strawberry crunch.
- Crunch Swap: If golden Oreos aren’t your favorite, crushed graham crackers or toasted almonds mixed with the strawberry gelatin powder create a satisfying crunch and a slightly different flavor that’s just as delicious.
- Seasonal Fun: In winter, swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry to bring a festive red hue, or sprinkle with finely chopped pistachios for added color and texture.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Crunchy Topping
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a small baking sheet with parchment paper – it makes cleanup a breeze! Next, toss 6 golden Oreo cookies into a food processor and pulse for about 30 to 60 seconds until crumbs form. You’ll want fine crumbs with a few tiny chunks for texture. Transfer these to a mixing bowl.
Then stir together 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter and 2 teaspoons strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully blended. Pour this strawberry mixture into the cookie crumbs and combine gently to create that signature two-toned look. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before using—this step develops a lovely crunchy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries Just Right
Give your fresh strawberries a gentle rinse with cool water, then pat them dry very thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy here, as you want the filling to stick without sogginess. Cut 12 to 15 large strawberries in half lengthwise and remove the green tops. Place them cut side up on your serving platter, ready for that luscious cream cheese filling.
Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese Filling to Perfection
In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese with a handheld mixer on medium speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ¾ cup sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to fully incorporate. Next, add 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Beat everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes until the filling is light, airy, and beautifully smooth.
Step 4: Fill and Finish Your Deviled Strawberries
Spoon about 1½ teaspoons of the cream cheese filling onto the cut side of each strawberry half. For a pretty presentation, you can also use a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip to pipe the filling in neat dollops. Finally, sprinkle the cooled strawberry crunch topping generously over each filled strawberry. Serve these right away for the best crunch and creamy flavor combo!
Top Tip
These tips will help you nail the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy in your Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe. A little attention to detail goes a long way!
- Strawberry Selection: Choose strawberries about 2 to 2½ inches to resemble deviled eggs; they sit nicely flat and look elegant on your platter.
- Dry Thoroughly: Always rinse strawberries right before assembling and pat them completely dry to avoid soggy or watery filling—this step is key!
- Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: It gives the filling the perfect rich, stable texture that holds its shape well and complements the sweet berries beautifully.
- Piping vs. Spoon: If piping feels tricky, don’t stress—a simple spoon dollop works just as well and makes the process less intimidating.
How to Serve Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe

Garnishes
To elevate presentation and flavor, consider adding a tiny sprig of fresh mint or a delicate edible flower atop each deviled strawberry. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add an elegant touch for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Deviled strawberries are lovely alongside sparkling wine or a crisp rosé for an easy party pairing. They also complement light finger sandwiches, cucumber bites, or a fresh spring salad, making them a versatile appetizer that can shine on any menu.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover strawberry crunch topping in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The cream cheese filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated, but be sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before using.
Freezing
Freezing assembled deviled strawberries is not recommended, as the delicate berries become soft and watery after thawing, which compromises their texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheating is not advised. Serve these beauties chilled and fresh for the best taste and texture — heat will cause the cream cheese filling to melt and the strawberries to soften too much.
Frequently Asked Questions:
While strawberries are ideal for their size and shape, ripe and firm raspberries or blackberries could work as a substitute, but keep in mind they may be harder to fill and the texture will differ slightly.
Yes! You can swap regular cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based heavy cream substitute. The texture might be a bit different but still delicious.
For best texture and flavor, assemble right before serving or within a couple of hours. Preparing the filling ahead is perfect, but assembled strawberries soften quickly due to moisture.
Absolutely! You can substitute golden Oreos with finely crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies paired with the strawberry gelatin powder to keep that sweet, crunchy touch.
Final Thoughts
Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe has become one of my favorite party appetizers—not only because they look so charming perched on a platter, but because that magical combo of creamy filling, juicy berry, and just the right crunch is such a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual get-together or a special celebration, these bite-sized delights bring a touch of sweetness and whimsy that’s hard to resist. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a go-to recipe in your entertaining arsenal!
Print
Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese and Crunch Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deviled Strawberries are a delightful and elegant appetizer featuring fresh strawberries filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese mixture and topped with a crunchy golden Oreo and strawberry gelatin crumble. Perfect for parties and gatherings, these bite-sized treats combine creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in a visually stunning presentation.
Ingredients
Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 6 golden Oreo cookies finely crushed
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
- 2 teaspoons strawberry flavored gelatin powder (Jell-O brand)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 12-15 large fresh strawberries rinsed and patted dry very well, cut into halves
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup powdered sugar sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside. Add the golden Oreo cookies to a small food processor or high-speed blender and pulse for 30 to 60 seconds until finely crushed. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and set aside.
- Combine Crunch Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the melted butter and strawberry gelatin powder until dissolved and fully blended. Add this mixture to the cookie crumbs and stir to combine, creating a two-toned crunchy texture.
- Bake the Crunch Topping: Spread the strawberry crunch mixture to a thin, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet. Break apart any larger pieces as needed.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Rinse the strawberries under cool water and pat dry very well to avoid watery filling. Cut each strawberry in half lengthwise, removing the green leaves, and place them cut side up on a serving platter. Set aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Using a handheld mixer, beat the cream cheese in a large bowl on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat on low until fully incorporated. Then add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until light and creamy.
- Fill the Strawberries: Dollop about 1 and ½ teaspoons of the cream cheese filling onto the cut surface of each strawberry. For a decorative touch, transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a tip and pipe decorative dollops.
- Add Crunch Topping and Serve: Sprinkle the cooled strawberry crunch topping over the cream cheese filling on each strawberry and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Store leftover topping in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- The cream cheese filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated; let it soften at room temperature before filling.
- Reheating is not recommended as it can melt the filling and soften the strawberries.
- Freezing assembled strawberries is not advised because the berries become soft after thawing.
- Choose strawberries about 2 to 2 ½ inches in size for an optimal deviled egg-like appearance.
- Use similarly sized strawberries for uniform presentation.
- Rinse strawberries just before assembling and pat them dry thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Full-fat block cream cheese provides the best texture and stability.
- If piping is tricky, using a spoon to dollop the filling works well, especially for beginners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg


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