Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake features a creamy, rich filling with a delightful homemade strawberry sauce swirled throughout. The graham cracker crust adds a perfect buttery crunch, while the water bath baking method ensures a smooth, crack-free finish. Perfect for dessert lovers wanting a fruity twist on classic cheesecake.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Strawberry Sauce
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Make the Strawberry Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes. Use a potato masher or fork to break the strawberries into a puree. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. Strain if a smoother sauce is desired.
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce onto the cheesecake. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the sauce into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan into a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with 1-2 inches of hot water to create a water bath (this prevents cracking). Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the water bath and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, for the best texture.
- Serve: Run a knife around the edges of the pan before releasing the springform. Slice and serve with additional strawberry sauce or fresh strawberries for garnish.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracks.
- For a smoother strawberry sauce, strain out seeds and pulp after cooking.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing leftovers is possible; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, homemade cheesecake, strawberry swirl, dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust