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Strawberry Cheesecake

This strawberry cheesecake is a creamy dessert that's easier to prepare than it seems, featuring a buttery crust and fresh strawberry topping that will impress anyone.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 6 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers Any plain cookie can work in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup sugar For sweetness in the crust.
  • 1/2 cup butter Use real butter, not margarine.
Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 oz cream cheese Use full-fat for best flavor.
  • 1 cup sugar Standard granulated sugar.
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For flavor.
Strawberry Topping
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries Juicy strawberries are best.
  • 1/4 cup sugar Adjust according to berry sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional for extra flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 50 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
  6. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar to prevent cracking. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Making the Topping
  1. Wash, hull, and slice the fresh strawberries.
  2. Toss the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out their juices.
  3. Optionally, cook the mixture over medium heat until slightly jammy, then cool before pouring over the cheesecake.
Serving
  1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, pour the strawberry topping over the cheesecake before slicing and serving.

Notes

For the best texture, use room temperature ingredients and do not overmix the batter. If your kitchen is warm, chill the crust while preparing the filling. A water bath can help prevent cracks during baking.