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Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake – Creamy Dreamy Delight Recipe

Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake – Creamy Dreamy Delight Recipe

4.7 from 25 reviews

Experience the ultimate creamy and dreamy delight with this Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, rich and velvety cream cheese filling, and a luscious freshly made strawberry topping, this cheesecake is a perfect dessert for any occasion. The water bath baking technique ensures a silky texture, while the fresh strawberry topping adds a refreshing fruity finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

  • 4 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent any water leakage during the water bath baking process.
  2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then allow it to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Filling: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, continuing to mix until well combined and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition to avoid overmixing. Finally, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and luscious.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan. Place the pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath that ensures even baking and a smooth texture. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  5. Cool the Cheesecake: Once baking is complete, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven for 1 hour. Then, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to let it fully set.
  6. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a blender or food processor, combine the hulled fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan to remove seeds and pulp. Bring the strained strawberry mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the dissolved cornstarch mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the topping thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  7. Finish and Serve: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface. Garnish with fresh strawberry halves as desired. Slice and serve this velvety strawberry cheesecake chilled for a delicious, creamy treat.

Notes

  • Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Wrapping the springform pan in foil prevents water from leaking into the cheesecake batter during the water bath baking.
  • Do not overbake the cheesecake; a slight jiggle in the center ensures a creamy texture.
  • Refrigerating overnight enhances the cheesecake’s flavor and firmness.
  • The fresh strawberry topping can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in the topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: velvet strawberry cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, homemade cheesecake, strawberry topping, water bath cheesecake, dessert