Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Strawberry cheesecake is a delicious dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity taste of strawberries. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home. This recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.
Why Make This Recipe
If you love cheesecake and strawberries, this recipe is for you! It offers a delightful balance of creamy and fruity flavors. This strawberry cheesecake is not only tasty but also looks stunning, making it a great choice for parties and gatherings. Plus, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the sweetness to your liking.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake
Making strawberry cheesecake is a simple process that involves creating a buttery graham cracker crust, mixing a creamy filling, and topping it with fresh strawberries. Just follow the easy steps below, and you’ll have a delicious cheesecake ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until fully combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling.
Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla; mix well. Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add sour cream; mix until smooth. Pour onto the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-60 minutes until nearly set. Turn off the oven, leaving cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping.
In a saucepan, combine strawberries, strawberry jam, lemon juice, and sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Cool to room temperature, then spread over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy.
Release from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake
Serve strawberry cheesecake chilled for the best flavor. You can add whipped cream on the side or garnish with fresh strawberries for an extra touch. This dessert pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a perfect finish to any meal.
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake
To store strawberry cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t skip the cooling step in the oven; it helps prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen if fresh ones are not available.
- For a thicker strawberry topping, let it cook a little longer on the stove.
Variation
You can easily switch things up by adding flavors to the cheesecake. Try adding lemon zest for a citrus twist or chocolate chips for a richer dessert. You can also replace strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use a cookie crust instead of graham crackers, like Oreos or digestives.
2. Is there a way to make this cheesecake healthier?
You can use lower-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream to reduce calories.
3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day or two in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake!
