Description
Rich and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, tangy cream cheese filling, and a glossy homemade strawberry topping. Perfect for celebrations or as an indulgent dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham crackers, finely crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Make the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour filling onto the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan into a water bath (a larger pan filled with hot water).
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
- Cool and Chill:
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and cool for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- Combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened and glossy. Let cool completely.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spread the strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake.
- Release from the springform pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Try swapping strawberries with other berries or adding a chocolate ganache layer.
- Water Bath Tip: Wrap the pan in foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 4 Hours minimum
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry cheesecake recipe Homemade cheesecake Creamy strawberry dessert Decadent cheesecake Easy cheesecake with topping