This refreshing Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. The zesty lemon in the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberry topping, creating a luscious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add sugar and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Stir in the sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the strawberries release their juices.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in water and add it to the strawberry mixture. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before spreading over the chilled cheesecake.
- Serve:
- Once the cheesecake is chilled and set, remove it from the springform pan.
- Spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Slice and enjoy your Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake!