Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake
Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake
When it comes to desserts that please a crowd, nothing beats a luscious homemade strawberry cheesecake. This delightful treat combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries. Perfect for special occasions, summer gatherings, or simply an indulgent evening at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dessert step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake
Homemade strawberry cheesecake is not only a feast for the taste buds, but it also offers the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. The contrast between the silky cream cheese filling, buttery crust, and sweet, tangy strawberry topping makes every bite a joy. Plus, it’s customizable! You can adjust the sweetness or incorporate other flavors to make it your own.
🧂 Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold cubed butter
- 14 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped strawberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1-2 tablespoons water
👩🍳 Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup granulated sugar.
- Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 14 oz cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add in 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.
3️⃣ Combine and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 45 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow it to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4️⃣ Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1-2 tablespoons water. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool.
5️⃣ Assemble:
- Once the cheesecake has set, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the surface.
6️⃣ Serve:
- Slice, serve, and watch as your family and friends swoon over this delightful homemade strawberry cheesecake!
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Berry Variations: If you’d like, substitute the strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries for an exciting twist.
- Richness: For a richer cheesecake, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with sour cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to enjoy this dessert gluten-free.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
A: Absolutely! This cheesecake keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to cover it tightly to avoid absorbing any odors from your fridge.
Q: How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake?
A: Make sure to bring your cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Additionally, beat your mixture until smooth and creamy before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the cheesecake?
A: Yes! You can freeze the cheesecake (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: How can I make the crust dairy-free?
A: You can replace the regular butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free crust.
👉 Try it now! Create this mouthwatering homemade strawberry cheesecake that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or simply enjoy it yourself. Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how your cheesecake turned out!
