Strawberry Cheesecake
A rich and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a fresh strawberry sauce for the perfect dessert.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs About 12 crushed crackers.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar For slight sweetness.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter Melted, to bind the crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese Softened to room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar For sweetness.
- 3 large eggs Room temperature.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract For flavor.
- ½ cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries Hulled and sliced.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar For sweetness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Enhances strawberry flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before adding the topping.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes until strawberries soften and release juices.
- Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool completely.
- Spread the cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight before adding the strawberry topping. You can also blend the strawberry topping for a smoother sauce.