Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ 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
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the strawberry topping:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together 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 spread and firmly packed.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fully combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake the cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still have a slight jiggle).
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Prepare the strawberry topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and water, then bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the lemon juice and continue to stir until the mixture thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Let the topping cool to room temperature.
5. Assemble and serve:
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Spoon the strawberry topping over the cheesecake, spreading it out evenly.
- Slice and enjoy!
This recipe should yield a rich and creamy cheesecake with a deliciously sweet and tangy strawberry topping. Perfect for any occasion!