Description
A creamy and fruity cheesecake with a beautiful strawberry swirl that feels special yet is easy to make, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz Cream cheese (full-fat, softened) (Ensure it’s softened but not melted.)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 3 large Eggs (Room temperature works best.)
- 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
For the crust
- 1.5 cups Graham crackers (or graham cracker crumbs)
- 0.5 cup Butter (melted) (For binding the crust.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar (For sweetness in the crust.)
For the strawberry swirl
- 2 cups Strawberries (fresh or frozen) (Fresh for bright flavor, frozen as a convenient option.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar (Adjust to taste.)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (To enhance the flavor.)
Instructions
Prepare the crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and slightly up the sides.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the cheesecake filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined.
Prepare the strawberry swirl
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer until the strawberries break down, then blend until smooth.
- Simmer the puree again for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Let cool before using.
Assemble and bake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
- Spoon dollops of strawberry puree on top and swirl gently with a knife.
- Wrap the springform pan with foil and place it in a roasting pan. Add hot water to the roasting pan, halfway up the sides of the springform.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-70 minutes, until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool down slowly for 45 minutes.
Cool and chill
- Remove from the oven and water bath, then let cool to room temperature.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Serve
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake and remove the springform ring.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of extra strawberry puree.
Notes
Cheesecake stores well in the fridge for 4-5 days. For freezing, wrap slices tightly and avoid storing near strong-smelling foods.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Sweet
- Cuisine: American