Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until well incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the sour cream and lemon juice, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. The center may still be slightly jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Once the cheesecake has set, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
- Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake, spreading it out evenly.
- Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.