Baked Strawberry Cheesecake: A Deliciously Creamy Dessert Recipe

Baked Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to any occasion. As I take my first bite, the creamy texture of the cheesecake combined with the sweet, tangy notes of fresh strawberries creates a symphony of taste that is simply irresistible. This classic dessert has roots in ancient Greece, where cheesecake was first enjoyed by athletes during the Olympic Games. Over the years, it has evolved into various forms, but the baked version remains a favorite for its rich, velvety consistency and the satisfying crunch of a buttery crust.

People love Baked Strawberry Cheesecake not only for its delicious flavor but also for its versatility. Whether served at a summer gathering or as a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of the luscious cream cheese filling and the vibrant strawberry topping makes it a visually stunning centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests. Join me as we explore the steps to create this delectable dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the cheesecake filling:
• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the strawberry topping:
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparing the Crust

Let’s start with the crust, which is the foundation of our delicious cheesecake. It’s super easy to make and adds a lovely crunch to the creamy filling.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the crust bakes evenly and becomes nice and crispy.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until the crumbs are well coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure to pack it tightly and evenly to create a solid base for the cheesecake.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

Now that the crust is cooling, it’s time to whip up the creamy cheesecake filling. This part is where the magic happens!

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps!
2. Add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. This helps to incorporate the eggs without overmixing, which can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
4. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, add the sour cream, flour, pureed strawberries, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a smooth filling without too much air.

Assembling the Cheesecake

With the crust cooled and the filling ready, it’s time to assemble our cheesecake!

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that may have formed in the filling.
3. Bake the cheesecake in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle. This is important for a creamy texture!
4. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
5. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.

Preparing the Strawberry Topping

While the cheesecake is chilling, let’s prepare a fresh strawberry topping that will add a burst of flavor and color!

1. In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the strawberries are well coated.
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Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Strawberry Cheesecake is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful dessert that combines creamy richness with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries. The velvety texture of the cheesecake paired with the sweet-tartness of the strawberries creates a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, this cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider topping your cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even adding a hint of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Baked Strawberry Cheesecake a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added to make it your own. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven. Trust me, once you taste this cheesecake, you’ll be coming back for more!

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