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Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

A rich and creamy cheesecake with a delightful strawberry ribbon, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 7 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Strawberry Sauce
  • 1.5 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled Fresh strawberries = brighter flavor
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.33 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Unsalted butter helps keep it balanced
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest taste
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cups heavy cream

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Use a potato masher or fork to break the strawberries into a puree.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  5. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Baking
  1. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
  3. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until just combined.
  4. Pour filling onto the cooled crust. Drop spoonfuls of cooled strawberry sauce on top and swirl gently with a knife.
  5. Place the springform pan into a larger baking dish, filling it with 1-2 inches of hot water to create a water bath.
  6. Bake for 55-65 minutes until edges are set, and center jiggles slightly.
  7. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the water bath and cool completely.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  9. Run a knife around the sides before releasing the springform. Slice and enjoy with additional strawberry sauce or fresh strawberries!

Notes

Prepare the strawberry sauce a day in advance. Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling; it can lead to cracks. Swirl in some chocolate ganache for a decadent twist!