Strawberry cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich and creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries. Here’s a classic recipe to make a delicious strawberry cheesecake:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to create an even layer.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in the sour cream and all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
4. Pour the Filling:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake:
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Cool:
- Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
7. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice (if using).
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries release their juices. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
8. Top the Cheesecake:
- Once both the cheesecake and strawberry topping are fully cooled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake.
9. Serve:
- Slice and serve your homemade strawberry cheesecake. Enjoy!
This strawberry cheesecake is a perfect dessert for strawberry season or any time you’re craving a luscious and fruity treat. It’s sure to be a hit with friends and family.
