Who can resist a creamy, luscious cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries? This strawberry cheesecake is the perfect combination of rich, velvety cream cheese filling and a buttery crust, all crowned with juicy strawberries and sweet strawberry jam. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think! Let’s dive into the recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 225 g (8 oz) Vanilla or sweet cookies, crushed
- ½ cup + 1 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- ⅓ cup brown or white sugar
For the Filling:
- 675 g (24 oz or 3 packages) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 2 ¼ tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 1 kg (2 lbs 4 oz) whole strawberries, cleaned and washed
- ¾ cup strawberry jam
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Wrap the outside of a 25 cm (10-inch) round springform pan with wax paper to prevent the cheesecake from sticking.
- In a food processor, combine the crushed cookies, cold butter pieces, and sugar. Process until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and partially up the sides of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until well combined.
- Add the flour and mix until just incorporated.
- One by one, add the eggs, beating on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential leaks.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden.
- Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Prepare the Topping:
- Just before serving, arrange the whole strawberries on top of the cheesecake.
- Warm the strawberry jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes liquid. If necessary, you can thin it out with a teaspoon of water.
- Brush the strawberries with the warmed jam to give them a beautiful glossy finish.
Serve:
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter.
- Slice and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness of your homemade strawberry cheesecake!
Nutrition Information (per slice):
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 7g
- Sugar: 35g
These values can vary depending on the size of the slices and ingredients used.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can introduce air and lead to cracks. Additionally, baking the cheesecake in a water bath can help maintain even temperature and prevent cracks.
- Chill Time: For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Alternative Toppings: If strawberries aren’t in season, you can top your cheesecake with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry compote.
This strawberry cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The buttery crust, rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a special event, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this creamy
