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Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe: The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Strawberry Cheesecake

A luxurious dessert combining creamy cheesecake and a vibrant strawberry topping, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 0.25 cups 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

  • 24 oz 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 packages, 8 oz each)
  • 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cups 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 0.25 cups 1/4 cup heavy cream, room temperature

For the strawberry topping

  • 1 lb 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 0.25 cups 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until well combined.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the batter is silky smooth. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cheesecake

  • Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill it with about 1 inch of hot water (water bath method).
  • Bake at 325°F for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

  • In a medium saucepan, combine halved strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
  • Whisk cornstarch with water until smooth and stir into the strawberry mixture. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a glaze consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely.

Assemble and Chill

  • Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Avoid overmixing and use the water bath method to prevent cracks. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword Baked Cheesecake, Cheesecake Recipe, Dessert Recipe, Easy Cheesecake, Strawberry Cheesecake