Description
Learn how to make this stunning and delicious Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake! This detailed recipe features a creamy cheesecake filling swirled with homemade strawberry sauce and baked in a graham cracker crust. Get step-by-step instructions, variations, and a comprehensive FAQ.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
1. Make the Strawberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
- Use a potato masher or fork to mash the strawberries into a puree. You can leave some chunks for texture, or puree until completely smooth, depending on your preference.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the strawberry puree.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Optional: For a smoother sauce, strain the cooled puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or larger pieces.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce over the surface of the cheesecake filling.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the sauce into the filling, creating a marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl, or the colors will become muddy.
5. Bake the Cheesecake (Water Bath Method):
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish (such as a roasting pan).
- Carefully pour hot water into the larger baking dish, filling it about 1-2 inches deep. This creates a water bath, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle when the pan is gently shaken. The internal temperature should reach 150°F (65°C).
6. Cool and Chill:
- Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven (and the water bath).
- Let it cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
- Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
7. Serve:
- Before serving, run a thin knife or offset spatula around the inside edge of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake.
- Carefully release the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice and serve chilled.
- Optional: Garnish with additional strawberry sauce, fresh strawberries, or whipped cream.