Description
This Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, ultra-creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a vibrant, juicy topping made with fresh strawberries. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich—ideal for summer gatherings, celebrations, or just indulging in something special.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- For the cheesecake filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- For the fresh strawberry topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, then eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
- Pour filling over crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until center is just set. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For topping, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until berries soften and release juices. Add cornstarch slurry if thicker topping is desired. Cool completely.
- Spoon strawberry topping over chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks.
- Use a water bath while baking for an ultra-smooth texture.
- The topping can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~380
- Sugar: ~28g
- Sodium: ~240mg
- Fat: ~25g
- Saturated Fat: ~15g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~8g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~6g
- Cholesterol: ~105mg
