Classic Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

A Timeless Dessert Favorite

Strawberry Cheesecake is a beloved classic that combines a rich, creamy filling with the bright, tangy sweetness of fresh strawberries. This iconic dessert features a crisp graham cracker crust, velvety smooth cheesecake layer, and a glossy strawberry topping that makes every bite irresistible. Whether for celebrations or indulgent treats, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Strawberry Cheesecake strikes the perfect balance—creamy yet light, with natural strawberry flavor shining through. Using room-temperature ingredients ensures a lump-free batter, while simple techniques prevent cracks for a flawless finish. The homemade strawberry sauce adds vibrant freshness, elevating it above store-bought versions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Easy to prepare ahead, this cheesecake chills beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Customize with extra berries or whipped cream for added elegance. It’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses without complexity, making it ideal for holidays, birthdays, or summer gatherings.

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Scroll down for the step-by-step recipe and create this stunning dessert today!

Classic Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Recipe by Next DeliciousCourse: DessertCuisine: United StatesDifficulty: Medium

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Crust :

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Cheesecake Filling :

• 32 oz (4 packages) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or 2 tbsp cornstarch)

• For the Strawberry Topping :

• 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (divided)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Directions

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan with foil.
• Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Bake 10 minutes, then cool.
• Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla; mix well.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated. Fold in flour.
• Pour filling over cooled crust. Place pan in a larger roasting pan; add hot water halfway up sides.
• Bake 65-75 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Turn off oven; leave door ajar for 1 hour.
• Remove from water bath; cool completely on rack. Refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.
• For topping: Simmer 1 lb mashed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice for 5 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry; cook until thickened. Cool, then stir in remaining halved strawberries.
• Spread topping over chilled cheesecake before serving.

Notes

• Use full-fat ingredients for the creamiest texture.
• Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
• Fresh strawberries are best, but frozen work for the sauce (thaw first).
• For no water bath: Bake at lower temperature and monitor closely.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Cheesecake

While indulgent, this dessert offers benefits from fresh strawberries, packed with vitamin C for immune support and antioxidants that promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Cream cheese provides calcium for strong bones, and moderate portions can satisfy cravings without excess.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Approximate values: 450 calories, 30g fat (18g saturated), 140mg cholesterol, 300mg sodium, 40g carbohydrates (2g fiber, 30g sugars), 7g protein. Includes vitamin C (from strawberries) and calcium (from dairy). Values vary by ingredients.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Room-temperature ingredients ensure a silky-smooth filling without lumps. The water bath method creates gentle, even baking for a crack-free top. Gradual cooling prevents sinking—let it rest in the oven, then on the counter before chilling.

Customizing Your Cheesecake

Experiment with the topping by adding lemon zest for brightness or mixing in other berries. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some sour cream. This versatile base pairs beautifully with chocolate drizzle too.

Storing Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Add topping just before serving for best freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze plain cheesecake (without topping) up to 3 months; wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in fridge.
• Topping: Store sauce separately in an airtight container up to 1 week; add fresh berries when serving.
• Slices: Freeze individual slices on a tray, then wrap for quick treats.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake delivers pure indulgence with its creamy filling and vibrant topping—a dessert that never goes out of style. Perfect for sharing or savoring slowly, it brings joy to any table. Explore more refreshing ideas in our Salads List for balanced meals alongside sweet treats. Enjoy baking!

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