This creamy and decadent pie combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, especially when you want to impress.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- For the Topping:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or preserves)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, puree the fresh strawberries using a blender or food processor.
- Gently fold the strawberry puree into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
- Bake the Pie:
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the pie cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, strawberry jam, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Let the strawberry topping cool completely.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake pie.
- Garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
- Slice and serve.
Tips and Variations:
- Crust Variations: Use a shortbread crust or a cookie crust instead of graham cracker.
- Berry Variations: Use other berries like raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a bright citrus flavor.
- Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake filling before baking for a chocolate swirl effect.
- Make-Ahead: The pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the topping just before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Pie!