Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake is a timeless dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress. Here’s how to make a classic strawberry cheesecake from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of strawberries)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until well combined.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming a tight, even layer.
3. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Make the Filling:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.
4. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until the filling is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly wobbly.
2. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
3. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

1. Combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is clear and thickened.
2. Add halved strawberries to the saucepan, gently tossing to coat them in the glaze.
3. Cool the mixture slightly before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.

Serve:

• Release the cheesecake from the springform pan by running a knife around the edges and then opening the clasp.
• Top the cheesecake with the strawberry topping just before serving.

Tips:

• Water Bath: For an even more creamy texture, bake the cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the outside of the springform pan in aluminum foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with hot water.
• Decoration: For a more elaborate presentation, garnish the cheesecake with whole strawberries and mint leaves.

Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake, a beautiful blend of creamy cheese, crisp crust, and juicy strawberries that’s perfect for celebrating any special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious treat.