Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, velvety slice of strawberry cheesecake that melts in your mouth, bursting with fresh berry flavor. The sweet, crumbly crust serves as the perfect foundation for the rich, smooth filling, while the vibrant red strawberries glisten like tiny jewels atop this dessert masterpiece.
Every bite is an adventure, taking you back to sun-soaked picnics and family gatherings where laughter echoed and memories were made. Strawberry cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a ticket to nostalgia and joy, perfect for birthdays or casual summer get-togethers. Get ready to indulge in an unforgettable flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This strawberry cheesecake recipe is incredibly easy to follow, ensuring even novice bakers can succeed
- The combination of creamy richness and fruity freshness creates a delightful flavor profile
- Its stunning visual appeal will impress guests at any gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this cheesecake can be served as a refreshing summer treat or a cozy winter delight
I remember the first time I made this strawberry cheesecake; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for an even texture in the crust that holds together beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter is essential for binding the crust ingredients together; opt for unsalted for better control over flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese; adjust according to your taste preference.
Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for maximum flavor; they will be the star of this dessert!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth filling; let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess to the cheesecake filling; do not skip this ingredient!
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavors with its warm notes; homemade is best if you have it!
Eggs: Room temperature eggs help create a silky-smooth filling by blending seamlessly into the mixture.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cheesecake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan using your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool completely while you prepare the filling.
Create Your Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to mix until well combined without lumps.
Add Flavor Elements: Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and eggs one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding another; this helps maintain that silky texture.
Pour Filling onto Crust: Carefully pour your luscious cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread evenly if needed. Tap gently on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped inside.
Bake Your Cheesecake: Bake in your oven for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off your oven and leave the cheesecake inside with door ajar for an hour—this prevents cracking from sudden temperature changes.
Let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight—patience pays off when it comes to cheesecakes!
Once chilled, top with fresh strawberries arranged beautifully on top before serving. Enjoy every creamy bite—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- Strawberry cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors
- The vibrant color of strawberries not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a fresh burst of flavor
- Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Bake the crust first while preparing the cheesecake filling. This ensures a firm base and perfectly set filling.
Add Your Touch
Consider using different berries or citrus zest to add unique flavors to your cheesecake. Personalize it to suit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in the fridge for up to five days. For best results, enjoy it cold without reheating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a silky smooth batter
- Use fresh strawberries for vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in your cheesecake; mix until just combined
Sharing my first strawberry cheesecake experience, I remember my friends’ faces lighting up as they took their first bites—definitely made all the baking mishaps worth it!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries in my strawberry cheesecake?
Frozen strawberries work well, but thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
Mascarpone or ricotta can be great alternatives for a different texture and flavor profile.
Strawberry Cheesecake
Indulge in a slice of creamy strawberry cheesecake that balances rich flavors with a burst of fresh fruit. This easy-to-make dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety filling, and is topped with vibrant strawberries that make it visually appealing for any occasion. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy winter nights, this cheesecake will transport you back to joyful memories every time you take a bite.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake crust for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar until combined.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before topping with fresh strawberries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
