A beautifully creamy, rich, and luxurious dessert, this Classic Strawberry Cheesecake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or any moment that calls for something indulgent. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and a glossy fresh strawberry topping, every bite delivers sweetness, freshness, and elegance.
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
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of berries)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles damp sand.
Press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to help it set.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating lightly between each addition to avoid too much air.
Fold in the sour cream gently until the filling becomes silky and uniform.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to fully set.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
Remove from the heat and allow the topping to cool completely.
Add the Finishing Touch
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices or a swirl of whipped cream around the edges.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
This recipe delivers a perfect balance of textures: a crisp buttery crust, a creamy melt-in-your-mouth center, and a bright fruity topping.
It slices beautifully and looks stunning on any dessert table, making it a reliable showstopper for birthdays, holidays, or romantic dinners.
Variations
If you’d like a flavor twist, try replacing the strawberry topping with raspberry, blueberry, or mixed berry sauce.
A chocolate drizzle or white chocolate shavings can also add an extra layer of indulgence.
You can even swirl a bit of strawberry purée directly into the filling for a marbled effect.
Storage Tips
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add the strawberry topping before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh berries enhances presentation and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Just thaw them first and adjust sugar as needed.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cracks often come from overmixing or fast temperature changes. Letting it cool gradually in the oven helps prevent this.
Can I make it without a springform pan?
A deep pie dish can work, but release and slicing may be trickier. A springform pan is ideal.
Conclusion
This Classic Strawberry Cheesecake is an indulgent, timeless treat that brings together creamy richness and fresh berry brightness in every slice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress and delight.