Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream – The Ultimate Dessert Delight

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream holds a special place in my heart—and freezer. I’m Mary, proudly known as The Pudding Lady around Bath. My story began in a cozy kitchen where syrup ran like rivers and flour floated like fairy dust. As a child, I’d sneak sugar by the spoonful, hypnotized by the scent of jam-laced sponges and molten treacle. I baked recklessly, passionately. And somewhere between jammed fingers and sticky smiles, I found my calling.

And today, I’m sharing a dessert that sings of summer: Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream. A swirl of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake ripples, and graham cracker crunch—frozen into a bite of bliss. This article dives deep into how to make it, its irresistible flavor, origins, nutrition, and everything in between. Whether you’re a kitchen wizard or a first-time scooper, you’re about to fall in love.

What is Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?

A Creamy Fusion of Cheesecake and Strawberries

At its core, strawberry cheesecake ice cream is exactly what it sounds like—a frozen dessert that captures the flavor of cheesecake layered with strawberry sauce or chunks. It typically includes cream cheese, which gives the ice cream its signature tangy richness, and swirls of real strawberries, compote, or even jam to add that fruity sweetness.

Some variations feature pieces of graham cracker crust or shortbread cookies, mimicking the crunchy base of an actual cheesecake. This texture contrast elevates the experience, making each bite more dynamic than traditional fruit-based ice creams.

When made well, the flavor mimics a slice of strawberry cheesecake straight from the freezer—dense, creamy, slightly tangy, and sweet.

How It Differs from Traditional Ice Cream Flavors

What makes strawberry cheesecake ice cream different from regular strawberry or vanilla ice cream?

The main difference lies in its cheesecake base. While regular ice cream is mostly made of cream, milk, and sugar, this version often includes cream cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt to mimic the taste of baked cheesecake. The added richness and slight tartness give it a more gourmet, indulgent profile.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Because of this unique composition, strawberry cheesecake ice cream appeals to both cheesecake lovers and classic ice cream fans. It’s a win-win dessert that satisfies multiple cravings at once.

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

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• Author: Mary
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus freezing time)
• Yield: 1 quart 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, tangy cheesecake ice cream swirled with fresh strawberries and graham cracker crumbles—like a frozen slice of strawberry cheesecake!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for strawberries)
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons sugar. Let sit for 15 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, then mix in milk and cream until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. In a separate bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter.
5. In the last few minutes of churning, fold in macerated strawberries and graham mixture.
6. Transfer to a container and freeze for 4 hours or until firm.

Notes

For extra swirl, layer strawberry sauce and graham crumbs as you spoon into the container before freezing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Churning
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Ingredients

Essential Components: Cream Cheese, Strawberries & More

What gives strawberry cheesecake ice cream its unforgettable flavor? It’s all about the quality and balance of ingredients. Here are the core components that transform an ordinary ice cream base into a creamy slice of cheesecake bliss:

1. Cream Cheese – The heart of any cheesecake-inspired recipe. It adds that signature tang and creamy mouthfeel.
2. Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – They deliver the creamy richness and silky texture that define premium or homemade ice cream.
3. Granulated Sugar – Provides just the right sweetness to offset the tang of strawberries and cream cheese.
4. Vanilla Extract – Enhances depth of flavor and adds a warm aroma to the base.
5. Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – Whether puréed, cooked into jam, or added as chunks, strawberries provide a juicy, fruity twist.
6. Lemon Juice (Optional) – A splash of acidity brightens the flavor and mimics the cheesecake experience.

Some recipes also add egg yolks for a custard-style base, giving the ice cream an even silkier consistency.

Looking for another rich and creamy cheesecake idea?
→ Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake

Flavor Enhancers: Crumble, Vanilla Extract & Mix-ins

To truly replicate the cheesecake experience in a scoop, additional mix-ins and flavor boosters come into play:

• Graham Cracker Crust or Cookie Crumble – Sprinkled in or swirled through, this adds that buttery, crumbly texture found in real cheesecakes.
• Strawberry Swirl or Jam – A cooked-down strawberry mixture can be ribboned into the churned ice cream for a dynamic look and flavor punch.
• White Chocolate Chips or Strawberry Chunks – For texture variation and extra decadence.

These additions are not just about flavor—they introduce delightful texture contrasts that make every spoonful a new experience. The graham cracker bits provide crunch, the swirl offers bursts of flavor, and the base delivers creamy luxury.

Learn more about creating your own syrups to enhance ice cream flavors:
→ Strawberry Simple Syrup

When made with high-quality ingredients, strawberry cheesecake ice cream becomes more than just dessert—it’s a full sensory experience.

Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe

No-Churn vs. Ice Cream Maker: What’s Best?

When making strawberry cheesecake ice cream at home, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a traditional churned recipe or a no-churn method.

Let’s break it down:

If you’re looking for a quick way to enjoy a homemade scoop without special tools, no-churn is the way to go. But if you own an ice cream maker, the churned version delivers that silky-smooth, scoop-shop quality texture.

Either method will result in a delicious dessert—but understanding your tools helps set the right expectations.

Don’t miss our dessert pairing using strawberries and chocolate:
→ Romantic Chocolate and Strawberry Cupcakes

Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy Perfection

Here’s a simplified no-churn strawberry cheesecake ice cream recipe that anyone can make from home—no machine needed!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberry preserves or homemade compote
• ½ cup crushed graham crackers (or cookie crumbs)
• Optional: Fresh strawberry chunks

Instructions:

1. Whip the Cream
   In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds firm, stiff peaks. Set aside.
2. Mix Cream Cheese Base
   In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Add the condensed milk and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy.
3. Combine & Fold
   Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
4. Layer & Swirl
   In a freezer-safe container, pour half of the base. Drop spoonfuls of strawberry compote over the mixture and gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect. Sprinkle in graham cracker crumbs. Repeat with remaining mixture.
5. Freeze
   Cover and freeze for 6–8 hours or overnight until fully set.
6. Serve
   Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly before scooping. Serve with extra strawberries or cookie crumbles.

This easy recipe captures the creamy cheesecake texture with the sweet-tart strawberry swirl you’d expect from a store-bought pint—but made fresher, cheaper, and with more love.

Looking for another luscious dessert packed with creamy richness?
→ Chocolate Cheesecake

Best Store-Bought Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Brands

Top Picks: Häagen-Dazs, Ben & Jerry’s, and More

If you’re not ready to churn your own ice cream, don’t worry—some brands have truly mastered the art of strawberry cheesecake ice cream. These store-bought versions combine convenience with indulgence and are often packed with high-quality ingredients and memorable flavor.

Here are some top-rated brands that offer this flavor:

Each option offers a unique balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor intensity. For those who love bold mix-ins, Ben & Jerry’s is a win. If you prefer smooth, sophisticated flavors, Häagen-Dazs often gets rave reviews for its cheesecake-inspired ice creams.

Don’t forget to check labels for ingredients, especially if you have dietary preferences.

Looking for inspiration? Try this retro pie filled with strawberry flavor magic:
→ Shoney’s Strawberry Pie

Is Häagen-Dazs Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Halal?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and it’s a valid one for anyone adhering to halal dietary guidelines.

Short answer: It depends on your region. In many countries (like the UAE and Malaysia), Häagen-Dazs strawberry cheesecake ice cream is certified halal by recognized authorities. However, in the U.S. and some Western markets, the product may not carry an official halal certification.

Here’s what you should look for:

• Check the label for a halal symbol.
• Visit the brand’s official website or contact their customer support for regional confirmation.
• Be cautious of ingredients like gelatin, mono- and diglycerides, or alcohol-based flavorings, which may vary by location.

Nutritional Facts and Calories

How Many Calories in Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?

If you’re wondering whether strawberry cheesecake ice cream fits into your daily calorie goals, the answer depends on the brand, serving size, and recipe. On average:

The calorie count mostly comes from cream, sugar, and cream cheese—all of which give the ice cream its rich flavor and silky texture.

Fat, Sugar, and Serving Size Explained

Beyond calories, you’ll want to look at fat, sugar, and nutrient composition. Here’s a breakdown using a standard store-bought version as reference:

Let’s face it—strawberry cheesecake ice cream is a treat. It’s not low-fat or sugar-free, and it’s not supposed to be. What it is, however, is deeply satisfying. And when eaten in moderation, it can be part of a balanced dessert plan.

Pro Tip: Scoop smaller portions and pair with fresh berries to lighten things up. That way, you still enjoy the indulgence without overdoing it.

Looking for other ways to add a fruity twist to classic desserts?
→ Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Filling

The History Behind This Flavor

Who Invented Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?

While the exact moment strawberry cheesecake ice cream was born isn’t clearly documented, its roots can be traced to two timeless desserts: cheesecake and ice cream. Combining them into one creamy scoop was an inevitable innovation.

Here’s what we know:

• Cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, with modern variations evolving through Europe and North America.
• Strawberries have long been paired with cheesecake in bakeries and restaurants, making them a natural match for ice cream flavor developers.

It’s believed that premium ice cream brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s popularized the flavor during the 1980s and 1990s, as gourmet and indulgent ice cream options became more mainstream. These companies were among the first to launch dessert-inspired flavors like Cherry Garcia, Tiramisu, and of course, Strawberry Cheesecake.

Since then, this flavor has cemented its place in the freezer aisle, showing up in everything from premium pints to budget tubs. And thanks to the rise in at-home ice cream makers and no-churn recipes, fans of this fruity, creamy combo now have endless ways to enjoy it from scratch.

Want more strawberry nostalgia?
→ Shoney’s Strawberry Pie

From Classic Cheesecake to Freezer Favorite

So why did this combo become so popular?

It’s all about emotional connection and flavor layering. Strawberry cheesecake already hits that sweet spot between tangy, sweet, and fruity. Turning that flavor into ice cream just made it more accessible, versatile, and crave-worthy—especially during warmer months.

The inclusion of texture (graham crust bits, swirls) also gives this flavor dimension. It’s not just ice cream—it’s a frozen dessert experience, which appeals to foodies and casual treat-lovers alike.

As dessert trends evolve, strawberry cheesecake ice cream remains a classic with a modern twist—and it’s not going away anytime soon.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

Best Ways to Serve It at Home

Strawberry cheesecake ice cream is versatile enough to stand on its own—but why stop there? With a little creativity, you can elevate your scoop into a full-blown dessert experience. Here are some crowd-pleasing ways to serve it:

• In a Waffle Cone or Sugar Cone
  Add crushed graham cracker crumbs on top for a “cheesecake crust” feel.
• As an Ice Cream Sandwich
  Scoop between two soft sugar cookies or graham crackers.
• In a Dessert Parfait
  Layer generous scoops with whipped cream, fresh berries, and crumbled cookies in a glass for a stunning, no-bake dessert.
• On a Warm Brownie or Blondie
  The heat from the brownie makes the ice cream melt slightly—pure magic.
• Topped with Whipped Cream and a Strawberry Glaze
  Extra indulgent, especially when you drizzle warm strawberry sauce or compote.
• Blended into a Milkshake
  Blend with milk, extra strawberries, and a spoonful of cream cheese for the ultimate thick shake.

Learn more about fruity, creamy desserts like this:
→ Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Filling

No matter how you serve it, the goal is to highlight the flavor’s creamy, fruity richness without overwhelming it.

Perfect Toppings, Sauces, and Dessert Combos

Here’s a list of tasty additions that pair perfectly with strawberry cheesecake ice cream:

Looking for something extra fun? Use your strawberry cheesecake ice cream as a base in a dessert board or “build-your-own sundae” bar at parties. Kids and adults will love the mix-and-match experience.

Check out this other luscious treat that pairs beautifully with strawberry:
→ Romantic Chocolate and Strawberry Cupcakes

Tips for Making It Creamier and Tastier

How to Prevent Icy Texture in Homemade Versions

One common challenge when making strawberry cheesecake ice cream at home—especially without an ice cream maker—is getting that ultra-creamy texture without ice crystals. If your scoops have turned more crunchy than creamy, here’s how to fix that.

1. Use Full-Fat Dairy
Low-fat milk or light cream simply won’t deliver the richness needed for the perfect texture. Stick to heavy cream, whole milk, and full-fat cream cheese to reduce water content and ensure smoothness.

2. Don’t Overmix
Once your whipped cream is folded in, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the air and ruin the creamy texture.

3. Add a Stabilizer
A tablespoon of corn syrup, vodka (if not avoiding alcohol), or even glycerin can help prevent ice formation. These ingredients lower the freezing point slightly.

4. Chill Everything First
Make sure your base mixture is cold before it goes into the freezer. This reduces ice crystal formation during freezing.

5. Use an Airtight Container
Exposure to air promotes ice buildup. Press a layer of plastic wrap or wax paper against the surface before sealing the lid.

Looking for more ways to enhance fruity dessert bases?
→ Strawberry Simple Syrup

Storage Hacks and Shelf Life Tips

Once you’ve churned or folded your way to strawberry cheesecake bliss, don’t let it go to waste. Here’s how to store it right:

• Best Container: A shallow, wide container allows faster freezing and easier scooping.
• Layering Protection: Add a piece of parchment or wax paper on the surface before sealing to block freezer burn.
• Avoid Frequent Thawing/Refreezing: This creates icy layers and can separate fat from water.

Shelf Life:
Homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream stays at peak quality for up to 2 weeks. After that, flavors may dull and texture may suffer, even if it’s technically safe to eat for longer.

Pro tip: Divide into smaller containers and take out one at a time to preserve freshness.

Looking for another creamy indulgence?
→ Chocolate Cheesecake

Variations and Dietary Options

Vegan, Keto, and Low-Sugar Alternatives

If you’re following a specific diet but still crave the rich, fruity flavor of strawberry cheesecake ice cream, you’re in luck. Plenty of variations exist to suit dietary needs—all without compromising on flavor.

Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Here’s how to replicate the creamy texture and tang—minus the dairy:

• Base: Use canned full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream
• Cheesecake Tang: Add vegan cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Miyoko’s)
• Sweetener: Go for maple syrup or agave nectar
• Strawberry Swirl: Use fresh strawberry compote or sugar-free jam
• Thickener: A small scoop of arrowroot starch helps with creaminess

This vegan strawberry cheesecake ice cream is perfect for anyone avoiding animal products, and it’s also naturally gluten-free if you skip cookie mix-ins.

Check out other fruit-forward desserts that can easily be made vegan:
→ Vegan Chocolate Cake

Keto-Friendly Version

If you’re cutting carbs, a few smart swaps will keep your scoop low in sugar but high in satisfaction:

• Base: Heavy cream + cream cheese + unsweetened almond milk
• Sweetener: Use erythritol, monk fruit, or allulose
• Strawberries: Use small amounts (net-carb friendly when measured)
• Crust Substitute: Try almond flour mixed with butter and cinnamon

Stick to small portions (about ½ cup) to stay within keto macros. This low-carb strawberry cheesecake ice cream alternative is rich, creamy, and under 5g net carbs per serving.

Creative Twists: Chocolate, Oreo, or Berry Medleys

Feeling adventurous? Give your strawberry cheesecake ice cream a delicious twist with bold new flavors and creative mix-ins. Here are a few delicious mix-in ideas to elevate your scoops:

These additions make your homemade strawberry cheesecake ice cream feel more gourmet and custom—even when starting with a store-bought base. Whether you prefer a decadent Oreo remix or a fruity berry blend, the possibilities are as creative as they are tasty.

Looking for more inspiration to remix classic desserts?
→ Vegan Chocolate Gluten-Free Cake

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