Description
This Ultimate Cheesecake offers a perfectly creamy and rich texture atop a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a fresh strawberry glaze. An indulgent classic dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers (about 30 squares)
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 pint sour cream
- dash of vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest
Strawberry Topping
- 1 10-ounce bag of frozen sliced strawberries, thawed OR 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 3-4 Tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix the finely crushed graham crackers, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even layer. Chill it in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar, then mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until the batter is silky and well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in the pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Prepare the strawberry topping: Combine the thawed or fresh sliced strawberries with 3-4 tablespoons sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla in a bowl. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate and release their natural juices, forming a sweet glaze.
- Serve: Before serving, spoon the strawberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and enjoy the rich, creamy cheesecake balanced with a fresh fruity finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for optimal texture and flavor.
- Use fresh or thawed strawberries for the topping depending on seasonality and preference.
- For a firmer crust, you can bake the crust alone at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Use a water bath when baking if you want to avoid cracks on the surface of the cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
