Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake

Name: Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup melted butter; 2 cups sliced strawberries; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Whipped cream (for garnish); Fresh strawberries and lemon slices (for garnish)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Indulge in the creamy, fruity goodness of our Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake. This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the zesty freshness of lemon, making it an ideal treat for special occasions or just a sweet pick-me-up. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, this cheesecake is both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup melted butter

2 cups sliced strawberries

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup sour cream

3 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 lemon, zested and juiced

Whipped cream (for garnish)

Fresh strawberries and lemon slices (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking.

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a solid crust.

Arrange Strawberries: Lay the sliced strawberries evenly over the prepared crust.

Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add Flavorings: Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully combined.

Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries in the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set.

Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.

Chill: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and lemon slices for a touch of elegance.

Serving Tips:

Chill Properly: Ensure the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled before serving. This will help it set properly and make it easier to slice.

Use a Warm Knife: For clean slices, dip a knife in warm water and wipe it dry before cutting into the cheesecake. This helps prevent the creamy filling from sticking to the knife.

Garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and lemon slices on top just before serving to enhance both the flavor and presentation.

Presentation: For a stylish presentation, you can drizzle a bit of strawberry or lemon sauce over the slices, or sprinkle some additional lemon zest.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors and to maintain freshness. It should be consumed within 5-7 days.

Freezing: If you need to store the cheesecake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing: To thaw a frozen cheesecake, place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent the filling from becoming too soft.

Serving After Freezing: Once thawed, you may want to freshen up the cheesecake by adding a bit more whipped cream and fresh fruit before serving.

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FAQs:

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cheesecake. Pat them dry with paper towels before arranging them over the crust.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months if needed.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize the risk of cracking, bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature and avoid opening the oven door during baking. Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar to help it set evenly.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can make a few substitutions:

Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel cheese can be used for a lighter version.

Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be substituted for a similar texture and tangy flavor.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a different crust, you can use digestive biscuits or a combination of crushed cookies.

Conclusion:

Our Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with a smooth, creamy texture that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a delicious dessert, this cheesecake is a refreshing choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!

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