Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup (80g) melted unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240g) sour cream, at room temperature
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
2. Make the crust:
   • Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
   • Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until just combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to avoid overmixing.
4. Bake the cheesecake:
   • Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Make the strawberry topping:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the strawberries release their juices.
   • Add the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
   • Let cool completely before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.
6. Assemble and serve:
   • Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the pan and spoon the strawberry topping over the top. Slice and enjoy!

This strawberry cheesecake is rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor!