Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy taste of strawberries. Its beautiful swirls and fresh fruit topping make it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. This cheesecake is perfect for spring and summer, but its delicious flavor is enjoyable all year round.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try this Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake recipe. It is rich and creamy, and the strawberry swirl adds a lovely pop of flavor and color. This dessert is not only delicious but also visually impressive, making it a great choice for celebrations, family gatherings, or a special treat for yourself. Plus, making it at home allows you to control the sweetness and use fresh ingredients.
How to Make Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or shortbread cookie crumbs)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberry glaze or preserves
- Whipped cream for garnish
Directions:
Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon juice. Pour half of the filling over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Strawberry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine the pureed strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 3–5 minutes). Let it cool slightly, then swirl spoonfuls into the cheesecake batter using a knife or skewer. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and smooth the surface.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–55 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the oven door slightly open for 1 hour. Transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Add the Toppings: Once chilled, spread the strawberry glaze or preserves over the cheesecake. Arrange fresh sliced strawberries on top. Pipe whipped cream around the edges for a final elegant touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
To serve Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake, slice it into wedges using a sharp knife. Serve each piece on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra sliced strawberries for decoration. This dessert pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet tea.
How to Store Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 5-7 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Tips to Make Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Be gentle when swirling the strawberries into the batter to keep the design beautiful.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
- If you don’t have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained.
Variation
You can make a chocolate version of this cheesecake by adding cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling. Simply replace a portion of the cream cheese with a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust?
- Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
- The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
- Yes! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day in advance. Just be sure to chill it in the refrigerator.