If you have ever wished to create a dessert that delights the senses and feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. It balances a luscious and creamy filling with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant, fresh strawberry topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply craving a slice of homemade heaven, this cheesecake delivers on flavor and texture in a way that’s sure to impress both your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients, each carefully chosen to bring out the best in taste, texture, and appearance. From the crisp, golden crust to the luxuriously rich filling and the fresh, brightly flavored topping, every component plays an essential role.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of your crust, providing that perfect crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness in both crust and filling for balance.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for mixing into the crust, binding those crumbs together with a rich buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, softened to silky perfection for a creamy, smooth texture.
- Pure vanilla extract: Brings out warm, fragrant notes that elevate the cheesecake flavor to new heights.
- Large eggs: Key for structure and a custard-like richness in the filling.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and creamy softness that keeps the filling silky.
- Heavy cream: Boosts creaminess and gives the cheesecake its melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Fresh strawberries: For the topping, offering juicy brightness and natural sweetness.
- Lemon juice: Enhances the freshness and balances the sweetness of the strawberry topping.
- Cornstarch mixed with water: Used as a thickener to give the strawberry topping a luscious glaze.
How to Make Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. This step ensures a lovely crunchy base that holds but still melts when you bite into it. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and silky with no lumps. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended. Carefully add the eggs one at a time on low speed, scraping the sides regularly to avoid overbeating. The key here is to maintain a smooth texture without incorporating too much air. Finally, blend in the sour cream and heavy cream gently until the mixture is uniform. Pour this luscious mixture over the cooled crust, making sure it’s smooth and even.
Step 3: Bake with a Water Bath
Wrap the outside of your springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking. Place the pan into a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the larger dish to reach about an inch up the side. This water bath helps cook the cheesecake evenly for that classic silky texture without cracking. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Then, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
Step 4: Chill Thoroughly
After the hour in the oven, remove the cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling time is essential to let the cheesecake fully set and develop its iconic creamy structure.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
While the cheesecake chills, combine your sliced fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and become juicy and soft. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook another 1 to 2 minutes until thickened to a beautiful glaze consistency. Remove from heat and let this vibrant topping cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
How to Serve Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a few whole fresh strawberries, a dollop of softly whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar elevate the presentation and enhance the flavor contrast without overpowering the cheesecake. Mint leaves add a refreshing touch and a pop of green color that’s as delightful to look at as it is to taste.
Side Dishes
While this cheesecake is often best enjoyed on its own due to its rich and satisfying nature, pairing it with a light herbal tea or a sparkling fruit-infused water refreshes the palate beautifully. For special occasions, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on delicate dessert plates with a fork resting beside, but don’t hesitate to get creative. Layer individual parfait glasses with cheesecake chunks, strawberry topping, and whipped cream for a fun twist. Or, for a festive look, arrange slices on a rustic wooden board and garnish with seasonal edible flowers, creating an inviting centerpiece for your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once enjoyed, store any cheesecake leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh and creamy for up to 5 days, allowing you to savor a slice or two for days to come.
Freezing
You can freeze your cheesecake for longer storage by wrapping it carefully in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or placing it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the perfect creamy texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is typically best served chilled. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, allow the refrigerated slice to come to room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may alter texture and cause separation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in this Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe, but it’s important to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the glaze.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake surface?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and bake the cheesecake in a water bath. Also, letting it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open helps maintain a stable temperature, reducing cracks.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free alternative, like gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour, adjusting the sugar and butter as needed for the crust consistency.
Is it necessary to bake the cheesecake in a water bath?
While not mandatory, baking in a water bath is highly recommended. It provides gentle, even heat and moisture, which prevents the cheesecake from drying out and cracking, resulting in that classic smooth texture.
How long is this cheesecake good after baking?
When refrigerated properly, this cheesecake stays fresh for up to 5 days. After that, the texture and flavor may begin to degrade, so it’s best enjoyed within this window.
Final Thoughts
There really is nothing quite like the joy of slicing into a perfectly creamy cake topped with fresh strawberry goodness. This Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe offers a delicious and reliable way to impress your loved ones and treat yourself to something truly special. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it becomes a requested classic for years to come. Go ahead, grab those ingredients, and enjoy the delightful baking adventure ahead!
Print
Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Perfect Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping features a creamy, smooth filling on a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with a fresh, sweet strawberry sauce. Baked in a water bath to ensure even cooking and a crack-free texture, this classic American dessert is ideal for any occasion, offering a luscious balance of rich cream cheese and fruity freshness.
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 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
For the strawberry topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed and scraping down the bowl sides as necessary to ensure even mixing. Incorporate sour cream and heavy cream gently until the batter is smooth, taking care not to overmix to avoid cracks.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Wrap the outside of the pan completely with foil to prevent water seepage. Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and pour enough hot water into the outer dish to reach about 1 inch up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and develop flavor.
- Prepare the strawberry topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and become soft. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the topping thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Serve: Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake before serving. Slice and enjoy this classic, creamy dessert with a bright fruity finish.
Notes
- To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven before chilling.
- You can substitute frozen strawberries for the topping, but be sure to thaw completely and drain excess liquid before cooking.
- Wrapping the springform pan in foil is essential to prevent water from seeping into the crust during the water bath baking.
- Using a water bath helps bake the cheesecake evenly and keeps it moist and creamy without drying out.
