Go Back
Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Alyssa

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Savor strawberry swirl cheesecake—a rich, creamy dessert featuring a luscious strawberry swirl. Ideal for celebrations or a delightful treat!

Ingredients
  

Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs - Provides a sweet and crunchy base for the cheesecake.
  • 1/3 cup melted butter - Binds the crumbs together and adds richness.
  • 1/4 cup sugar - Enhances the sweetness of the crust complementing the creamy filling.
Filling:
  • 32 oz cream cheese softened - The star of the dessert, giving it a rich and dense texture.
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar - Sweetens the filling balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
  • 1 tsp vanilla - Adds a warm inviting flavor to the cheesecake.
  • 4 large eggs - Provides structure and stability to the filling.
  • 1 cup sour cream - Contributes creaminess and a slight tang that elevates the taste.
Strawberry Swirl:
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries diced - Offers freshness and bright flavor, creating the swirl effect.
  • 2 tbsp sugar - Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice - Brightens the fruity flavor adding a zesty kick.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
  2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust.
  3. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 32 oz softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups sugar and 1 tsp vanilla, mixing until well combined. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Fold in 1 cup sour cream gently.
  4. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  5. Create the Strawberry Swirl: In a small bowl, blend 1 cup diced fresh strawberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice until the strawberries are well-mashed. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture onto the top of the cheesecake filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake filling to create a marbled effect.
  6. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
  7. Cool and Refrigerate: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to fully set.