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Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 24 reviews

This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a luscious dessert featuring a creamy, smooth cream cheese filling swirled with a vibrant homemade strawberry sauce atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked with a water bath to ensure a silky texture, this cheesecake combines classic flavors with a fresh berry twist, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Strawberry Sauce

  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry)

For the Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 ounces (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the strawberry sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the strawberries into a puree. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely. For a smoother sauce, strain out the seeds.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the crust and filling.
  3. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press it firmly and evenly onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a solid base.
  4. Bake the crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition to incorporate fully. Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
  6. Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce onto the surface. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the sauce gently into the filling, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
  7. Create the water bath: Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and pour in 1-2 inches of hot water around it to form a water bath. This step helps the cheesecake cook evenly and prevents cracking.
  8. Bake the cheesecake: Bake for 55-65 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly upon shaking. This ensures a creamy texture.
  9. Cool gradually in the oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks from rapid temperature change.
  10. Remove from water bath and cool completely: Take the springform pan out of the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.
  11. Chill overnight: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor development.
  12. Release and serve: Run a knife around the edges to loosen before releasing the springform. Slice the cheesecake and serve with extra strawberry sauce or fresh strawberries as garnish.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a rich, creamy texture.
  • Let all dairy ingredients come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • The water bath is essential to prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
  • Straining the strawberry sauce is optional but recommended for a silky finish.
  • Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Fresh strawberries can be used instead of frozen; adjust cooking time slightly if using frozen berries.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake, homemade cheesecake, strawberry sauce, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake dessert

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/strawberry-swirl-cheesecake-recipe/