There's something magical about the taste of fresh, creamy Strawberry Cheesecake. With its velvety texture, tangy cream cheese filling, and luscious strawberry topping, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. This cheesecake recipe has been my go-to for years, especially during strawberry season when the berries are ripe and bursting with flavor.
I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; it was gone in minutes! It’s an easy yet show-stopping dessert that everyone loves, and the best part is, it’s simple enough for even beginner bakers to master. Let’s dive into what makes this strawberry cheesecake so irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert. This Strawberry Cheesecake is everything you could want in a sweet treat – rich, fruity, and surprisingly easy to make.
First, this cheesecake is incredibly creamy. The combination of cream cheese and a hint of vanilla creates a silky-smooth texture that melts in your mouth. Each bite is a perfect balance of rich and light, with a hint of tartness from the strawberries.
Then, there’s the strawberry topping. Fresh strawberries simmered into a simple sauce add a refreshing burst of flavor, perfectly complementing the creaminess of the cheesecake. You’ll get that delightful blend of sweet and tart that keeps you coming back for another slice.
This recipe is also ideal for gatherings. Not only does it look gorgeous, with the vibrant red topping contrasting against the pale cheesecake, but it also serves up beautifully. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cheesecake will turn heads.
Lastly, it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. The steps are straightforward, and with just a little patience, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to impress.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake lies in its combination of fresh and classic ingredients. Each one is essential for creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
To start, you’ll need cream cheese. Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest texture. Softening it beforehand ensures a smoother blend, so leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
Graham cracker crumbs form the base of this cheesecake. They add a delicious, buttery crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling. You can buy pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs or crush whole crackers in a food processor.
The strawberries are the star of this recipe’s topping. Fresh strawberries are best for maximum flavor, but if they’re out of season, frozen berries can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra liquid in your topping.
A small amount of lemon juice in the filling brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. This hint of acidity enhances the richness of the cream cheese, giving it a more vibrant flavor.
You’ll also need a springform pan for this recipe. This type of pan allows you to release the cheesecake easily, keeping its beautiful shape. If you don’t have one, a deep-dish pie pan could work, but be extra careful when removing slices.
How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake

Creating this mouthwatering Strawberry Cheesecake is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.
Start by preparing your graham cracker crust. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and a touch of sugar, then press firmly into the bottom of your springform pan. For a firmer crust, bake it for 10 minutes at 350°F before adding the filling.
Next, whip up the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one, then finish with a splash of vanilla extract and a bit of lemon juice for brightness.
Pour the filling over your crust and smooth the top. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour – this helps prevent cracking.
While the cheesecake cools, make the strawberry topping. In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and a touch of water. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens. For an even thicker topping, add a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water, then cook for another few minutes.
Once the cheesecake is fully cooled, spread the strawberry topping over the top. Chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let it set completely. When ready to serve, simply release the sides of the springform pan and garnish with a few fresh strawberry slices.
Storage Options
This Strawberry Cheesecake stores beautifully, making it perfect for advance preparation or enjoying leftovers.
In the refrigerator, this cheesecake can be kept in an airtight container for up to five days. Just be sure to cover it well to avoid it absorbing any other fridge odors.
If you want to freeze the cheesecake, do so without the strawberry topping for best results. Wrap the entire cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
To thaw, move the cheesecake to the fridge overnight. Once thawed, top it with fresh strawberry topping just before serving for the best texture and taste.
For reheating, avoid the microwave, as it can soften the texture. Instead, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes to get the best flavor and consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
This Strawberry Cheesecake is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own with these fun variations!
For a mixed berry topping, add raspberries or blueberries to the strawberry mixture. This adds a deeper berry flavor and a beautiful, rich color to the topping.
To make a chocolate strawberry cheesecake, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cheesecake and top with chocolate-dipped strawberries. It’s a decadent twist that feels extra indulgent.
If you prefer a lighter cheesecake, swap in Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese. This creates a slightly tangier, lighter texture while keeping the flavors fresh.
Try a lemon-strawberry cheesecake by adding lemon zest to the filling and replacing the vanilla extract with lemon extract. This citrusy version pairs beautifully with the strawberries for a refreshing twist.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. You’ll get all the classic cheesecake flavors without the gluten!
With this versatile recipe, the options are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature strawberry cheesecake – your friends and family will be delighted! Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!
PrintStrawberry Cheesecake Recipe
This strawberry cheesecake recipe features a smooth, creamy filling made with cream cheese and fresh strawberries, set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Ideal for gatherings or as a delightful treat, this cheesecake is a must-try for fans of berry desserts!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup strawberry puree
- Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake Crust: Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and mix in eggs one at a time. Fold in strawberry puree until well combined.
- Bake Cheesecake: Pour filling over the crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until center is nearly set. Cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Top and Serve: Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a creamy texture.
- Chill for the full 3 hours for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 320mg
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