Description
This Simple Strawberry Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberries is the perfect dessert for any occasion. A smooth and creamy cheesecake base sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a layer of sweet, fresh strawberries. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the sour cream and mix until smooth.
- Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices and become syrupy.
- Serve:
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Top with the fresh strawberries and syrup. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra smooth cheesecake, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
- You can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance to give it more time to chill.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the fresh strawberries with a strawberry sauce or jam.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg