Strawberry Dream Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion!

Strawberry Dream Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion!

Summary:

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that combines creamy richness with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, look no further than the Strawberry Dream Cheesecake. This luxurious dessert is a perfect balance of smooth, velvety cheesecake and a tangy, fruity strawberry topping. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cheesecake is guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more.

The Strawberry Dream Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a rich and creamy cheesecake filling made with cream cheese, sour cream, and a touch of vanilla. The star of the show, of course, is the luscious homemade strawberry topping, made from fresh strawberries, sugar, and a hint of lemon for added brightness. Topped with a few extra strawberry slices, this cheesecake is as stunning as it is delicious.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10-12 servings
Calories: 400 per slice

Courses: Dessert
Cuisines: American, Classic

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Whipped cream (optional)

Equipment:

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Saucepan (for strawberry topping)
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to create an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to gently press the crust down.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and slightly firm. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.