A rich, creamy cheesecake with a fresh strawberry topping. This decadent dessert is perfect for any occasion and will delight your taste buds with its balance of sweetness and tang.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
- Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice (if using), being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the cornstarch mixture and continue cooking until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Slice and serve!
Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake!