Indulging in a Classic Strawberry Cheesecake Rich Creamy Topped with Fresh Strawberries is like wrapping yourself in a soft, velvety blanket of flavor. The moment you take a slice, the rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake dances on your palate while the sweet, juicy strawberries add a burst of freshness that leaves you grinning like a Cheshire cat.
This dessert holds special memories for me; I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering. My aunt, who usually critiques my cooking with the precision of a food critic, took one bite and proclaimed it “a slice of heaven.” Now that’s the kind of endorsement every aspiring baker dreams of! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something special, this cheesecake promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Strawberry Cheesecake is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal baking skills
- Its flavor is a heavenly blend of creamy richness and fresh strawberry sweetness
- Visually stunning with its vibrant toppings, it’s sure to impress guests
- Plus, it’s versatile—serve it chilled or at room temperature for any event
Making this cheesecake has always resulted in delighted reactions from family and friends who can’t resist its creamy goodness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth crust that holds together well.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust perfectly; don’t skip this step!
Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for that rich and creamy texture.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and contributes to the cheesecake’s creaminess.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens your cheesecake; adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
Fresh Strawberries: Make sure they are ripe and juicy for topping—nothing beats fresh fruit!
Lemon Juice: A hint of acidity balances the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for an adventure that leads to cheesecakey bliss.
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well blended into a sandy texture.
Bake the Crust: Press that crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown and set aside to cool.
Blend the Filling Ingredients: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
Pour and Bake the Cheesecake**: Pour your luscious filling over the cooled crust in your springform pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula before placing it gently in the oven for 50-60 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center.
Chill Out!: Once done baking, turn off your oven but leave the cheesecake inside for about an hour—this helps prevent cracks as it cools down gradually.
Add Fresh Strawberries**: After chilling overnight in the refrigerator (if you can wait that long), top with freshly sliced strawberries right before serving for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoying this classic strawberry cheesecake is just as satisfying as making it! Whether you keep it all to yourself or share with others (and let’s be real—you probably won’t), each bite will be pure joy!
You Must Know
- When making Classic Strawberry Cheesecake, always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
- Fresh strawberries are your best friend; they add vibrant flavor and color
- Remember to chill the cheesecake overnight for the best texture, as patience is truly a virtue in this recipe
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the crust. While it bakes, mix the cream cheese filling to ensure everything aligns perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist. You can also use crushed graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cream cheese to enhance flavor and texture
- Don’t overmix your batter to avoid cracks on top
- Always let your cheesecake cool gradually to prevent condensation forming on the surface
The first time I made Classic Strawberry Cheesecake, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their leftovers were practically gone before I could even grab a slice!
FAQ
How long does Classic Strawberry Cheesecake need to chill?
Chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal for best flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh strawberries provide better flavor and texture for this dessert.
What can I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Avoid overmixing and ensure gradual cooling to minimize cracking on your cheesecake’s surface.
Classic Strawberry Cheesecake
Indulge in the lusciousness of this Classic Strawberry Cheesecake, where creamy richness meets the refreshing sweetness of ripe strawberries. This dessert is not only a visual delight but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to simple weeknight treats. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll create a stunning cheesecake that will leave friends and family asking for seconds!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until blended. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sugar, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour to cool gradually.
- Chill overnight in the refrigerator. Top with fresh strawberries just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
