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Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this Strawberry Cheesecake! This dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that combines the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the bright freshness of strawberries. Perfect for special occasions or just because, this cheesecake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Every bite of this cheesecake is a celebration of flavors. The buttery graham cracker crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, while the luscious strawberry layer adds a refreshing twist. It’s the ideal dessert for any gathering, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Nutritional Benefits
- Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
- Cream cheese provides calcium and protein, making this treat a bit more balanced.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tsp powdered sugar
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- For a sweeter cheesecake, adjust the sugar in the filling and topping to your preference.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Add the melted butter and stir until fully combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
- Gradually add the eggs, beating well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream until smooth.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Spread half of the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust.
- Layer the strawberry mixture on top, then add the remaining cheesecake filling, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
5. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the springform pan into a large roasting pan. Carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is nearly set. Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar for an hour to cool the cheesecake gently.
6. Chill:
- After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
7. Top and Serve:
- Just before serving, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cheesecake and garnish with fresh strawberries.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to any gathering. Each slice is bursting with flavor and creamy goodness, making it a sure hit. We’d love to hear your thoughts—how did your cheesecake turn out? Share your experience in the comments!
