Description
This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and beautifully swirled with fresh strawberry sauce. Baked to perfection on a buttery graham cracker crust, this elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or anytime you’re craving a decadent treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Strawberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Swirl
- In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until strawberries break down.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1 minute, until thickened.
- Remove from heat, blend until smooth (if desired), and let cool.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (2-3 minutes).
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
- Spoon dollops of strawberry sauce on top, then use a knife or toothpick to swirl.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
- Wrap the springform pan in foil and place in a water bath (a roasting pan with hot water).
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let cool for 1 hour.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing.
- Serve chilled with extra strawberry sauce or fresh strawberries.
Notes
- Water Bath Tip: Prevent leaks by wrapping the pan in 2-3 layers of foil.
- Make It Sweeter: Add 1 tbsp honey or extra sugar to the strawberry sauce.
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.