Description
This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert with a rich, creamy center and a stunning strawberry swirl. Nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust and baked to perfection, it’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and elegant. Ideal for holidays, celebrations, or whenever you want to impress!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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6 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Swirl:
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1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan in foil to prepare for a water bath.
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Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
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Make the strawberry puree: Blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a food processor. Simmer on stovetop until slightly thickened. Stir in cornstarch slurry if a thicker consistency is desired. Let cool.
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Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream until just combined.
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Assemble: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust. Drop spoonfuls of strawberry sauce over the top, and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
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Bake: Place pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until center is just set.
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Cool and chill: Let cheesecake cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
You can use store-bought strawberry sauce in a pinch, but homemade gives the best flavor and swirl.
Room-temperature ingredients help prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
No water bath? Bake at 325°F without one, and place a pan of water on the rack below.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American