Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry cheesecake is a delicious and popular dessert that combines the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries. Here’s a basic recipe for a classic strawberry cheesecake:

Ingredients:

For the crust:

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

For the filling:

• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the strawberry topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create the crust. Use the bottom of a glass or a flat utensil to help compact the crumbs.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar and the vanilla extract to the cream cheese, continuing to beat until well combined.
6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. Stir in the sour cream and flour until the batter is smooth.
8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is slightly jiggly.
10. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour.
11. After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
12. In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries break down, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the strawberry topping to cool.
13. Once the cheesecake has set and chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
14. Pour the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake.
15. Slice and serve your delicious homemade strawberry cheesecake. Enjoy!

You can garnish with additional fresh strawberries or whipped cream if desired. Strawberry cheesecake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.