Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

Short Description

Strawberry swirl cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and elegant dessert featuring a velvety smooth cheesecake filling swirled with homemade strawberry sauce over a buttery graham cracker crust. This visually stunning and delicious cheesecake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful and delicious – A gorgeous swirl of strawberry sauce in every slice.
• Creamy and rich – Smooth, tangy cheesecake with a buttery crust.
• Perfect for special occasions – A show-stopping dessert everyone will love.
• Make-ahead friendly – Best when chilled overnight, making it great for parties.
• Customizable – Use different fruit purees or toppings to switch it up!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• Sugar
• Butter (melted)

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• Fresh or frozen strawberries
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch (mixed with water)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Directions

this recipe

Make the Strawberry Swirl:

1. Cook the strawberries – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until the strawberries soften.
2. Thicken the sauce – Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the strawberry mixture. Simmer until thickened, then remove from heat and cool completely.

Prepare the Crust:

3. Preheat the oven – Set to 325°F (163°C).
4. Mix the crust – Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
5. Bake the crust – Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

6. Beat the cream cheese – In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
7. Add wet ingredients – Mix in eggs one at a time, then add sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Blend until fully combined.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

8. Pour the filling – Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
9. Swirl the strawberry sauce – Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry sauce over the filling and swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer.
10. Bake – Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
11. Cool gradually – Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for an hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

Serve and Enjoy:

12. Slice and serve – Garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 60 minutes
• Chill time: 4+ hours
• Total time: 5+ hours

Variations

• Chocolate strawberry version – Add melted chocolate to the filling or drizzle chocolate on top.
• Lemon twist – Add lemon zest to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing citrus note.
• Berry mix – Use a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for the swirl.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free cookies or nuts for the crust.
• No-bake version – Skip the eggs and bake time, using a gelatin-based filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Serving: Best served chilled, straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the swirl?

Yes! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing, bake in a water bath, and let it cool gradually in the oven.

Can I make this without a springform pan?

Yes, but a springform pan makes removal easier. You can also use a deep pie dish.

What’s the best way to swirl the strawberry sauce?

Use a toothpick or skewer and make gentle figure-eight motions.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes! Greek yogurt works as a great substitute.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.

Can I add extra fruit on top?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries, raspberry sauce, or even a dusting of powdered sugar works well.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean after each cut.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight.

What should I serve with this cheesecake?

Whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce are great toppings.

Conclusion

Strawberry swirl cheesecake is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its buttery crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and vibrant strawberry swirls, this homemade classic is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a slice of pure indulgence!

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