Indulge in the luxurious fusion of creamy white chocolate and sweet, juicy strawberries with this show-stopping cheesecake. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert night, this rich and flavorful cheesecake offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety white chocolate cheesecake filling, and a luscious strawberry topping, this dessert is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave your guests raving.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 oz (2 cups) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 oz white chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
For the topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated, followed by the melted white chocolate. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when shaken.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the strawberry topping by combining the strawberry jam and water in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the jam melts into a smooth glaze. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the chilled cheesecake in an overlapping circular pattern, starting from the outer edge and working inward.
- Brush the strawberries with the prepared glaze to give them a shiny finish and to enhance their flavor.
- Carefully remove the springform pan’s outer ring before serving. Slice and enjoy this decadent white chocolate strawberry cheesecake.
This indulgent dessert is an ideal centerpiece for any special occasion or a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and fresh strawberry topping make it a must-try recipe!