Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Quick & Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe – A Dreamy Treat

Sweet memories dance through my strawberry cheesecake recipe, promising a delightful culinary adventure.

Creamy textures blend with vibrant fruity notes in this irresistible dessert.

Soft cream cheese melts perfectly against a buttery graham cracker base.

Summer berries add a burst of natural sweetness that tingles your taste buds.

Each slice tells a story of indulgence and comfort.

Delicate and rich, this dessert brings pure joy to any gathering.

You’ll fall in love with every decadent, smooth bite of pure deliciousness.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for a perfect strawberry cheesecake?

The key ingredients include cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, butter, and fresh strawberries. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the creamy texture and delicious flavor.

  • Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them completely before using. Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually. Don’t open the oven door during baking, and run a knife around the edge after baking to prevent cracking.

What Makes Strawberry Cheesecake So Good

  • Craft with Ease: No advanced baking skills needed, making this cheesecake perfect for beginners wanting to impress family and friends.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combines classic graham cracker crust with creamy cheesecake and vibrant strawberry topping, guaranteeing smiles at potlucks, birthdays, and holiday gatherings.
  • Minimal Ingredient Lineup: Requires basic pantry staples like cream cheese, eggs, and graham crackers, ensuring you can whip up this delightful dessert without a special grocery run.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the day before your event, allowing the cheesecake to set overnight and giving you stress-free entertaining with a show-stopping dessert ready to serve.

Everything Needed for Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps it bind together.
  • Butter: Melted butter helps the crust ingredients stick and creates a rich flavor.
Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Help bind the filling and provide structure to the cheesecake.
Topping:
  • Strawberry Puree, Fresh Strawberries: Adds a fresh, fruity flavor and vibrant color to the cheesecake.
  • Whipped Cream: Optional topping that provides a light, airy contrast to the rich cheesecake.

Instructions to Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Right

Step 1: Craft the Crumbly Base

Warm up your oven to a cozy 325F.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter.

Press this delightful mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a solid foundation for your dreamy cheesecake.

Step 2: Toast the Crust

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 10 minutes.

Once done, let the crust cool and set while you prepare the creamy filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Luscious Filling

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend cream cheese until silky smooth.

Add sugar and vanilla, continuing to mix until the texture is velvety.

Gently incorporate eggs one by one, stirring carefully after each addition to ensure a perfectly uniform mixture.

Step 4: Bake to Creamy Perfection

Pour the luxurious filling over the prepared crust.

Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the center is almost set but still has a slight wobble.

Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for an hour.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 4 hours or overnight.

This helps the cheesecake firm up and develop its rich, decadent texture.

Step 6: Decorate with Fresh Berries

Before serving, generously top the cheesecake with:
  • Fresh strawberry puree
  • Whole fresh strawberries
  • Optional dollops of whipped cream

Slice, serve, and enjoy your magnificent strawberry cheesecake!

Smart Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Success

  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries and full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture in your cheesecake.
  • Avoid overbaking by removing the cheesecake when the center is slightly jiggly, and use a water bath to create a more humid baking environment.
  • Let cream cheese and eggs sit at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother, lump-free filling.
  • Pat strawberries dry before topping to prevent excess liquid from making the cheesecake soggy.
  • Wipe your knife with a hot, clean cloth between cuts to get clean, beautiful slices of cheesecake.

Strawberry Cheesecake Twists to Consider

  • Gluten-Free Berry Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream, and replace eggs with silken tofu or aquafaba.
  • Low-Carb Berry Bliss: Substitute graham crackers with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans, and use a sugar substitute like erythritol for the filling.
  • No-Bake Strawberry Sensation: Skip baking by using gelatin or agar-agar to set the cheesecake, creating a lighter, cooler summer dessert option.

Great Matches for Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

  • Berry Bliss Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the creamy cheesecake texture and add a cool contrast.
  • Fresh Fruity Accent: Arrange additional fresh strawberry slices around the plate's edge for a vibrant and colorful presentation that highlights the dessert's key flavor.
  • Elegant Brunch Companion: Pair with a light mimosa or sparkling rosĂ© to elevate the dessert experience and create a sophisticated weekend treat.
  • Afternoon Tea Delight: Slice into smaller portions and serve alongside hot Earl Grey tea for a classic and refined dessert moment that feels both indulgent and refined.

Store Strawberry Cheesecake to Keep Fresh

  • Wrap cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Slice cheesecake into individual portions or keep whole. Wrap securely in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Transfer from freezer to refrigerator and let thaw overnight. Never leave at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth. Consume within 2 days after thawing.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Homemade strawberry cheesecake delivers creamy indulgence with a graham cracker crust and fresh strawberry topping. Rich Philadelphia cream cheese creates silky layers you’ll savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup strawberry puree or fresh sliced strawberries

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: whipped cream for garnish

Instructions

  1. Craft a buttery foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
  2. Place the crust in a preheated oven at 325F (165C) and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and allow to cool and set.
  3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety smooth. Gradually incorporate sugar and vanilla, blending until the mixture becomes silky and uniform.
  4. Add eggs individually, gently folding each one into the cream cheese mixture. Ensure thorough integration after each addition to maintain a consistent texture.
  5. Pour the luxurious filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface. Transfer to the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes at 325F (165C).
  6. Check the cheesecake’s doneness by observing a slight wobble in the center. Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for approximately one hour.
  7. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow complete setting and enhance flavor development.
  8. Before serving, artfully arrange fresh strawberry slices or drizzle strawberry puree across the top. Optional: Crown with delicate swirls of whipped cream for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly.
  • Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath baking method, which helps create a creamy, crack-free cheesecake.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prevent over-mixing the cheesecake batter by gently folding eggs to maintain a light, silky texture and avoid incorporating too much air that can cause cracking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 376 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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