If you’re a fan of creamy, rich desserts with a fruity twist, this Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is going to be your new favorite! This delightful dessert combines the tangy sweetness of strawberries with the creamy goodness of a traditional cheesecake. The swirls of strawberry puree not only add a burst of flavor but also create a visually stunning pattern. Perfect for celebrations or simply when you want to indulge in a luxurious dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress your friends and family. It’s baked on a buttery graham cracker crust, then chilled to perfection for a velvety, refreshing treat.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (32 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside. - Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and the mixture has the texture of wet sand.
Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the back of a spoon to smooth it out and create an even layer. Set the crust aside while you prepare the filling. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and no lumps remain.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter.
Finally, fold in the sour cream, gently stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. - Prepare the Strawberry Swirl:
In a blender or food processor, puree the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. If you prefer a finer texture, you can strain the mixture through a sieve to remove the seeds, but this step is optional. - Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry puree onto the surface of the cheesecake batter. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the strawberry puree into the batter to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want to see distinct strawberry swirls on the surface. - Bake the Cheesecake:
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly when the pan is shaken.
Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface. - Chill the Cheesecake:
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the perfect cheesecake texture. - Serve:
When ready to serve, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake to release it from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled, garnished with extra fresh strawberries if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the creamiest cheesecake, make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing.
- Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs, mix gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water Bath Alternative: If you’re concerned about cracking, place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below the cheesecake. The steam will help prevent cracks without needing to submerge the cheesecake in a water bath.
- Test for Doneness: The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Nutritional Benefits
- Fresh Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, strawberries add not only sweetness but also nutritional value to this cheesecake.
- Cream Cheese: While indulgent, cream cheese provides a good source of calcium and healthy fats in moderation.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, while also offering protein and probiotics.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually Stunning: The swirled strawberry design is not only beautiful but also easy to create.
- Fruity and Creamy: The combination of rich, creamy cheesecake and bright, fruity strawberry puree is a match made in heaven.
- Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests.
- Make-Ahead Dessert: Cheesecake needs to chill, which makes it a perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This cheesecake contains no meat, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is free from nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of smooth, creamy cheesecake and vibrant strawberry puree works beautifully together. The sour cream adds a light tang that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. By swirling the strawberry puree into the batter, you create not only a lovely design but also ensure a perfect distribution of flavors. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a delightful contrast to the soft, velvety texture of the cheesecake.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its creamy texture, beautiful strawberry swirls, and buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. The rich, indulgent flavors of the cheesecake are perfectly balanced with the fresh, fruity sweetness of the strawberries. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a delicious treat, this cheesecake is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy a slice (or two) of this show-stopping dessert!
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Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1hr 30mins
Description
If you’re a fan of creamy, rich desserts with a fruity twist, this Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is going to be your new favorite! This delightful dessert combines the tangy sweetness of strawberries with the creamy goodness of a traditional cheesecake. The swirls of strawberry puree not only add a burst of flavor but also create a visually stunning pattern. Perfect for celebrations or simply when you want to indulge in a luxurious dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress your friends and family. It’s baked on a buttery graham cracker crust, then chilled to perfection for a velvety, refreshing treat.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (32 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside. - Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and the mixture has the texture of wet sand.
Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the back of a spoon to smooth it out and create an even layer. Set the crust aside while you prepare the filling. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and no lumps remain.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter.
Finally, fold in the sour cream, gently stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. - Prepare the Strawberry Swirl:
In a blender or food processor, puree the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. If you prefer a finer texture, you can strain the mixture through a sieve to remove the seeds, but this step is optional. - Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry puree onto the surface of the cheesecake batter. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the strawberry puree into the batter to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want to see distinct strawberry swirls on the surface. - Bake the Cheesecake:
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly when the pan is shaken.
Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface. - Chill the Cheesecake:
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the perfect cheesecake texture. - Serve:
When ready to serve, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake to release it from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled, garnished with extra fresh strawberries if desired.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 1hr