Okay, friends, let’s talk about the dessert of my dreams.Strawberry Cheesecake: AIf I could only eat one dessert for the rest of my life, this would be it. What is that creamy cheesecake filling? What are some of the best strawberries to try this summer? Think of it as the cooler, more sophisticated cousin of a plain old cheesecake – the one that shows off the flavors of the cheese. How do I bring a bottle of rosé to the party? This isn’t your average cake. It’s an experience. I make this version for almost every special occasion, and it’s always a hit.
What is a strawberry cheesecake?
So, what *is* a Strawberry cheesecake. What, exactly? Well, at its heart, it’s a classic cheesecake – that rich, dense, and unbelievably smooth baked dessert made primarily with cream cheese. But then we take it to the next level with…you guessed it…strawberries! We’re talking about fresh, juicy strawberries, either swirled into the batter, layered on top, or both! It’s essentially a celebration of flavors and textures, a perfect marriage of creamy and fruity, sweet and slightly tangy. Think of it as a regular cheesecake that’s put on its dancing shoes and decided to join the party! In this recipe, we’ll be using a simple graham cracker crust, a decadent cream cheese filling, and a generous topping of fresh, glazed strawberries.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? There are just so many reasons to fall head-over-heels in love with this strawberry cheesecake.
* **Flavor Explosion:** First and foremost, the taste is out of this world! The creamy cheesecake filling is perfectly balanced with the bright, tangy sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. The graham cracker crust adds a subtle hint of cinnamon that just ties everything together.
* **Surprisingly Simple:** Don’t let the fancy appearance fool you. This recipe is actually quite easy to make! I promise, even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can totally nail this. The step-by-step instructions are super clear, and I’ve included tons of tips and tricks to help you along the way.
* **Budget-Friendly Bliss:** Compared to some fancy desserts, this Strawberry Cheesecake: What is surprisingly affordable to make. Cream cheese and strawberries are usually pretty easy to find at reasonable prices, especially when strawberries are in season.
* **Versatile Delight:** This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Want to add a hint of lemon zest to the filling? Go for it! Prefer a different type of crust? No problem! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. You can even swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries. I make a raspberry version that is divine.
What I love most about this Strawberry Cheesecake: Can is that it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving something sweet on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s similar to a New York style cheesecake, but with that extra layer of fresh fruit. It’s always the first dessert to disappear at family gatherings, and my kids ask for it constantly!
How do I make strawberry cheesecake?
Quick Overview
Making this Strawberry Cheesecake: WhatIs it easier than you think? How do you press graham cracker crust into a springform pan? Then, we’ll whip up a creamy cheesecake filling and pour it over the crust. After baking, the cake needs to chill for a few hours (or even overnight). What’s a strawberry glaze? What is the secret of cooking?
Ingredients
For the Crust:
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets) * 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted * 1/4 cup granulated sugar * 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but I highly recommend it! )
For the Filling:
* 32 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (this is KEY! ) * 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar * 1/4 teaspoon salt * 4 large eggs * 2 tablespoons safflower oil* 1 tablespoon butter* 1/2 cup vanilla extract * 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon* ..
For the Strawberry Glaze: How do you make it
* 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced * 1/2 cup granulated sugar * 1/4 cup water * 2 ounces of frozen strawberries. Lemon juice * 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter. For extra protection against sticking, line the bottom of the pan with a circle of parchment paper. How do you press cheesecake into the bottom of a pan?
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down tightly. How do you slice a cheesecake?
Step 3: Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature – this is crucial for avoiding lumps in your cheesecake. If it’s still a bit cold, you’ll end up with little cream cheese chunks in your filling, and nobody wants that!
Step 4: Add Remaining Filling Ingredients
Beat in the vanilla extract and salt. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. At this stage, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause cheesecake to crack while baking. Just mix until the eggs are fully incorporated.
Step 5: Pour Filling over Crust
How do you fill a graham cracker crust with cheesecake filling? If you want to get fancy, you can gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air.
Step 6: Bake
In the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes, or until the edges of the cheesecake are set and the toppings are golden brown. Is the center jiggly? What is the exact baking time of your oven? To avoid cracking, you can also bake the cheesecake in a water bath. To do this, wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil (to prevent water from escaping from the pan). What is the best way to remove seeping from the cake pan? How do I pour hot water into a large pan? Bake as directed.
Step 7: Cool & Chill
Is it safe to bake a cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour? How do you prevent cracking? Remove cheesecake from oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is important! Is it necessary for a cake to set completely before serving?
Step 8: Make the Strawberry Glaze
While cheesecake is chilling, prepare the strawberry glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Set aside. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. How long does it take for strawberries to soften and release their juice? In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Set aside. The cornstarch slurry should be poured into a saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes more, or until the glaze has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely. I usually pop it in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.
Step 9: Glaze & Serve
Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Gently run a thin knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake before releasing the dough. What is the best way to serve strawberry cheesecake? I like to add a few extra fresh strawberry slices for presentation.
What is the best way to serve it?
This Strawberry Cheesecake: HowWhat are some good ways to serve it to enhance the experience? * **For Breakfast:** A slice ofstrawberry cheesecake with a strong cup of coffee is a surprisingly delightful way to start the day. The sweetness of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with the bitterness of the coffee.
* **For Brunch:** Serve slices of Strawberry Cheesecake: What alongside a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and sparkling wine for an elegant brunch spread. Garnish the cheesecake with fresh mint sprigs for an extra touch of sophistication.
* **As Dessert:** After a satisfying dinner, there’s nothing quite like a slice of Strawberry Cheesecake: What to end the meal on a sweet note. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. I like to add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a little something extra.
* **For Cozy Snacks:** Sometimes, you just need a little something sweet to brighten up your day. A slice of strawberry cheesecake with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate is the perfect cozy snack on a chilly evening.
My family tradition is to serve this strawberry cheesecake every year for my mother’s birthday. She absolutely adores it, and it’s become a cherished part of our celebration.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Cheesecake
Want to make sure your strawberry cheesecake turns out perfectly every time? Here are my top tips:
* **Cream Cheese is Key:** As I mentioned before, make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature before you start mixing. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free filling. Trust me on this one, it’s worth the wait.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to crack while baking. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
* **Water Bath for Perfection:** Consider baking the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and ensure even baking. It’s an extra step, but makes all the difference.
* **Chill Time is Crucial:** Be patient! The cheesecake needs to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, the wait is worth it.
* **Glaze Consistency:** If your strawberry glaze is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. I’ve had my glaze be both too thick and too thin, so don’t worry if that happens to you.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to add a touch of lemon zest, almond extract, or even a hint of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling for a unique twist. You can also use different types of berries in the glaze, such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Get creative and find your perfect flavor combination!
I’ve learned these lessons after making this cake countless times. There are a couple of times when I wasn’t patient enough and the cake cracked, or the glaze was too thin. It still tasted amazing, but wasn’t as aesthetically pleasing.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store your strawberry cheesecake to keep it fresh and delicious:
* **Room Temperature:** I really don’t recommend leaving your strawberry cheesecake at room temperature. It needs to be refrigerated or frozen.
* **Refrigerator Storage:** Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The glaze will help keep the top moist.
* **Freezer Instructions:** To freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Don’t apply the glaze before freezing, as it can become watery when thawed. Add fresh glaze after thawing.
* **Glaze Timing Advice:** If you plan to store the cheesecake for more than a day, it’s best to wait to add the glaze until just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming too runny or soaking into the cheesecake. If I know I’m going to freeze the cake, I’ll freeze the glaze separately in an airtight container as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my absolute favorite recipe for strawberry cheesecake! I truly hope you give it a try. It’s the perfect dessert to celebrate any occasion, big or small. From the creamy cheesecake filling to the luscious strawberry glaze, every bite is pure bliss. I hope I’ve shown you how straightforward this recipe is! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cheesecake variations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touches. Happy baking!
Strawberry cheesecake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 0.33 cup Melted butter unsalted
- 24 oz Cream cheese softened
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1 cup Strawberry jam
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in vanilla and eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream.
- Pour batter over crust. Drop spoonfuls of strawberry jam over the batter and swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until set. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
