Strawberry Cheesecake

A strawberry cheesecake is the perfect combination of creamy, velvety cheesecake filling, a buttery crust, and a sweet, vibrant strawberry topping. Its rich texture and fruity freshness make it a timeless dessert for any special occasion or indulgent moment at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry cheesecake is both decadent and refreshing, striking a balance between smooth creaminess and the bright tang of strawberries. The graham cracker crust adds a subtle crunch, while the fresh strawberry topping delivers natural sweetness and a visually stunning finish. It is a dessert that will impress guests yet is simple enough to prepare at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Cream cheese, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Sour cream

• Vanilla extract

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• Strawberry jam or puree

• Lemon juice

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined, then press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.

3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid excess air.

4. Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top.

6. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

7. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.

8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

9. For the topping, combine fresh strawberries, strawberry jam or puree, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the mixture thickens slightly, then cool.

10. Spread the strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Chilling time: 4 hours or more

Variations

• Use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers for a richer flavor.

• Add a swirl of strawberry puree into the cheesecake batter before baking for a marbled effect.

• Use mixed berries instead of just strawberries for a colorful topping.

• Add a touch of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty note.

storage/reheating

Store cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Cheesecake is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath if desired, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute full-fat Greek yogurt or heavy cream for sour cream.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the topping.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set and the center should have a slight wobble when gently shaken.

Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes, but a homemade crust often has better texture and flavor.

How can I make the cheesecake more firm?

Add one additional egg or bake for a few extra minutes, but avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.

Is a springform pan necessary?

It is highly recommended for easy removal, but you can also use a deep pie dish lined with parchment paper.

Can I skip the topping?

Yes, the cheesecake is delicious plain or with alternative toppings like chocolate ganache or caramel sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Conclusion

This strawberry cheesecake offers a luxurious balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, making it a show-stopping dessert for gatherings or a delightful treat for yourself. Its simple preparation and impressive presentation ensure it will become a cherished recipe in your kitchen

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