Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade Elegance: The swirl of homemade strawberry sauce elevates this cheesecake into a culinary masterpiece.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The ultra-smooth filling balances sweetness and tanginess perfectly.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different fruit swirls or enjoyed plain for a classic cheesecake experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A timeless dessert that appeals to all, making it suitable for any gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- Fresh strawberries
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon juice
- Cornstarch
- Water
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Sour cream
- Vanilla extract
- Eggs
Directions
- Prepare the Strawberry Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or fork to break the strawberries into a puree. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely. Strain if a smoother sauce is desired.
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust, smoothing the top.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce onto the cheesecake. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the sauce into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then remove it from the water bath and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before releasing the springform pan.
- Slice and serve with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or additional strawberry sauce, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Chill Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Mixed Berry Swirl: Replace strawberries with a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry swirl.
- Chocolate Crust: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with chocolate cookie crumbs for a richer base.
- Lemon Cheesecake: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake batter and use lemon curd for the swirl to create a lemon-flavored variation.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Cheesecake is best served chilled. If you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
What is the key to a smooth cheesecake filling?
Ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing helps create a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Using a water bath and avoiding overmixing the batter are effective methods to prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
- Total Time: 7 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert featuring a luscious cheesecake filling with a homemade strawberry sauce swirl. Perfect for gatherings or indulgent evenings, this elegant treat is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Crust:
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Sauce:
- Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Cook on medium heat until softened (5-7 minutes).
- Mash into a puree and stir in cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened (1-2 minutes), then cool completely. Strain if desired.
- Make the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes; cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (2-3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Fold in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour filling onto crust. Drop spoonfuls of strawberry sauce on top and swirl with a knife.
- Wrap the pan in foil, place in a roasting pan, and add hot water halfway up the sides.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until edges set and center jiggles slightly.
- Cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Release from pan, slice, and serve with toppings of choice.
Notes
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
- Prevent cracks by using a water bath and not overmixing.
- Use a skewer or knife for precise swirling of the strawberry sauce.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American