Strawberry Dream Cheesecake

Sure! Here’s a detailed recipe for a Strawberry Dream Cheesecake, a delicious and creamy dessert topped with fresh strawberries. This cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or just as a treat!

Strawberry Dream Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cheesecake filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

For the strawberry topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves

• 2 tbsp water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, enhances flavor)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture looks like wet sand.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly.

4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

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Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling

1. Beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the sugar and vanilla extract. Beat again until fully combined.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause cracks.

4. Mix in the sour cream and flour (if using) until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.

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Step 3: Bake the cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. (It will firm up as it cools.)

2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.

3. After the hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

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Step 4: Prepare the strawberry topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberry jam, water, and lemon juice (if using). Stir over medium heat until the jam is melted and the mixture becomes smooth.

2. Add the sliced strawberries to the pan and stir to coat them in the strawberry syrup. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. The topping should thicken slightly as it cools.

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Step 5: Assemble the cheesecake

1. Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake once it’s fully chilled.

2. If desired, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices for extra decoration.

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Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

1. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.

2. Slice into wedges and serve. The cheesecake should be creamy and rich with a sweet, fruity topping.

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Tips and Notes:

• For a smoother texture: Be sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to prevent lumps.

• Optional crust variation: You can substitute graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a different flavor.

• Make ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep it covered and chilled until ready to serve.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake without the strawberry topping for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

Enjoy making and eating this Strawberry Dream Cheesecake! It’s a showstopper dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.