Strawberry Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake:

– 2 pounds (900g) cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) sliced strawberries

For the Strawberry Topping:

– 2 cups (250g) sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons (30g) lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake:

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Beat in sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in sliced strawberries.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause cracking.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

1. Mix sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a bowl.
2. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, until the strawberries start to release their juice and the mixture thickens.

5. Assemble and Serve:

1. Let the cheesecake cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Top the cheesecake with the strawberry topping before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake