Strawberry cheesecake is a delicious, creamy dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the refreshing flavor of strawberries. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family meals, or just as a personal treat. With this easy recipe, you can make a stunning strawberry cheesecake without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you prefer a baked or no-bake strawberry cheesecake, both options are simple to make at home. You’ll find that preparing it yourself is more rewarding than buying it at the store, as you can adjust the ingredients and flavors to your liking. For a more comprehensive guide on the essential ingredients, you can check out this article.
To help you get started, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create an easy, foolproof strawberry cheesecake. Plus, I’ll share a few tips for preventing common baking mistakes like cracking and overmixing.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake
For the Crust
- 2 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
For the Strawberry Topping
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups pureed strawberries (about 1 lb fresh strawberries)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped strawberries
Optional: Homemade Whipped Cream
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Lower the oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low speed until smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as too much air in the batter can lead to cracks.
- Add sour cream and vanilla extract and mix gently.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing slowly to combine after each addition.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cheesecake
- Bake the cheesecake for 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for another 20 minutes.
- Crack the oven door open and let the cheesecake cool for an additional 15 minutes.
- Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge to chill for 3-4 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch.
- Stir in the pureed strawberries and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens (about 15–20 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped strawberries.
- Let the topping cool for 15–20 minutes, then pour it over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Add Whipped Cream (Optional)
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Serve slices of cheesecake topped with freshly made whipped cream.
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Option
If you’re short on time or want a hassle-free option, try the no-bake strawberry cheesecake. You can prepare it without using the oven by making the following adjustments:
- Use the same graham cracker crust, but refrigerate it instead of baking.
- For the filling, omit the eggs and flour. Instead, stabilize the filling with whipped cream or gelatin.
- Chill the cheesecake for 4–6 hours in the fridge before adding the strawberry topping.
For more variations, you can explore the ultimate strawberry cheesecake recipe which includes some creative twists.
Tips for a Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake
To ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly, follow these tips:
- Avoid overmixing: Overmixing can add too much air to the batter, leading to cracks during baking.
- Cool slowly: A gradual cooling process will prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
- Customizable topping: Adjust the cornstarch in the strawberry topping for a thicker or thinner consistency based on your preference.
Serving and Storing Strawberry Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake has chilled, it’s time to serve! Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 3 months.
To defrost, leave the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake
What is the easiest recipe for strawberry cheesecake?
The easiest recipe includes a simple graham cracker crust, a classic cheesecake filling made from cream cheese and eggs, and a fresh strawberry topping. You can also try the no-bake version for an even quicker preparation.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work just as well. Be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid adding extra moisture.
How long does strawberry cheesecake last in the fridge?
Stored properly, strawberry cheesecake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can make a delightful and easy strawberry cheesecake at home. For more inspiration and recipes, check out this article on what makes a great cheesecake to elevate your dessert game.
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