Step 1

Pulse vanilla wafers and dark brown sugar together in a food processor or blender for 1-2 minutes or until completely crumbled and combined.

Step 2

Pour in melted butter and pulse briefly to combine the ingredients.

Step 3

Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper and press crust ingredients into an even layer on the bottom of the pan.

Step 4

Place the crust in the freezer to chill while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat together strawberry cream cheese spread and sugar until fully combined.

Step 6

Beat in sour cream and strawberry syrup until smooth.

Step 7

Gently fold in whipped topping until cheesecake mixture is light, fluffy and completely combined.

Step 8

Spread cheesecake layer onto chilled crust and even it out gently with a spreading spatula.

Step 9

Cover pan well with plastic wrap and chill in the freezer for 4 hours or in the refrigerator overnight. (If you decide on the freezer method, you will want to allow it to thaw an hour in the refrigerator before serving.)

Step 10

When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator and top with sliced strawberries. Slice with a very sharp knife and serve chilled.