Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in a slice of pure bliss with this delectable Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake. Picture a buttery, lemon-kissed cookie crust cradling a lusciously smooth cream cheese filling, crowned with a sweet strawberry topping. The marriage of tangy cream cheese and juicy strawberries creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Originally crafted for a birthday celebration, this cheesecake has since become a coveted treat in my family. The contrast between the creamy richness of the cheesecake and the vibrant sweetness of the strawberries is a match made in dessert heaven. Each bite is a delightful reminder of sun-kissed strawberry fields and carefree childhood memories spent baking with loved ones.

For an extra touch of finesse, consider using a water bath while baking this cheesecake to achieve that flawless, crack-free surface. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different yogurt flavors and seasonal fruit toppings to create your own signature twist on this classic dessert. With its make-ahead convenience and versatile appeal, this Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake is sure to become a staple at your table for any gathering or moment worth celebrating.

Quick Benefits

• Balanced Flavor Profile: The tangy cream cheese filling complements the sweet-tart strawberry topping, creating a perfect balance of flavors in each bite.
• Versatile Base: This cheesecake recipe is adaptable to various fruits and flavors, allowing you to customize it for different seasons or preferences.
• Make-ahead Dessert: The cheesecake improves with time, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert that can be prepared up to three days in advance.
• Professional Presentation: Using a water bath technique ensures a crack-free surface, elevating the cheesecake’s appearance to a professional level.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe Recipe

• The creamy texture of the cheesecake filling combined with the buttery, lemony cookie crust creates a luxurious and indulgent dessert experience.
• The contrast between the tangy cream cheese filling and the sweet strawberry topping offers a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
• This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with different yogurt and fruit combinations, making it suitable for various seasons and preferences.
• Making the cheesecake in a water bath ensures a crack-free surface and a professional-quality finish, elevating the dessert to a restaurant-level presentation.
• The dessert improves with time as flavors meld, allowing you to make it in advance up to three days before serving, making it convenient for special occasions.
• Using brown butter in the crust adds a depth of flavor with its nutty aroma, creating a delicious complexity that enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake.
• The option to use frozen strawberries makes this recipe accessible year-round, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dessert regardless of the season.
• The tips provided, such as ensuring a well-mixed filling and proper refrigeration time, guarantee a successful outcome, even for those new to baking cheesecakes.
• The opportunity to customize the recipe with different yogurt flavors and garnishes allows you to personalize the cheesecake to your liking, making it a versatile and adaptable dessert option.

Ingredients for Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Crust

• 1 egg
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup brown butter (120g)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (150g)
• 3 tbsp sugar (40g)

Filling

• ½ cup strawberry Greek yogurt (100g)
• 3 eggs
• ⅓ cup heavy cream (80g)
• 16 oz cream cheese (450g)
• ⅓ cup condensed milk (80g)
• 2½ tbsp cornstarch (30g)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)

Topping

• Optional: Mint or rosemary for garnish
• Strawberry jam (to finish)
• 1 cup whole strawberries (200g, fresh or frozen)

How to Make Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Make Crust

Combine lemon zest with sugar, then add flour, egg, baking powder, and cooled brown butter. Press mixture into a cheesecake pan.

Step 2: Prebake Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 3: Cornstarch Mix

Combine cornstarch and heavy cream until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Filling Base

Combine yogurt with condensed milk.

Step 5: Beat Main Filling

Using a mixer, beat cream cheese, eggs, and sugar until fluffy (5–10 minutes). Gently fold in yogurt mixture and cornstarch slurry until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Pour the filling onto the crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.

Step 7: Chill

Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 8: Decorate & Serve

Drizzle with strawberry jam, fresh strawberries, and mint leaves. Slice and serve.

Storage Tips

To store the finished creamy strawberry cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. The cheesecake should be refrigerated for at least 4-6 hours to allow it to set properly. Ideally, it is best to refrigerate it overnight before serving to ensure a firm texture and fully melded flavors.

For longer storage, the cheesecake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it is recommended to add the fresh strawberry topping just before serving to maintain its vibrant appearance and flavors. When ready to serve, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut to achieve clean and professional-looking slices.

Remember that the cheesecake can be customized with different fruit flavors throughout the year, and using a water bath during baking can help prevent cracks on the surface. Additionally, adding optional garnishes like fresh mint, rosemary, extra strawberries, or a lemon twist can enhance the presentation and flavor profile of the finished dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have brown butter on hand, regular melted butter can be used as a substitute for the cookie crust. You can also experiment with using graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers for a different crust texture.

In place of strawberry Greek yogurt, feel free to swap it with another fruit-flavored yogurt such as raspberry or blueberry for a twist on the cheesecake filling. Plain yogurt can also be used, but you may want to increase the amount of strawberries or add a touch of strawberry extract for more flavor.

If you prefer a different fruit topping, you can easily replace the strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You could also try a mixed berry compote or a fruit jam of your choice for a varied and delicious finish to your cheesecake.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve individual slices of this creamy strawberry cheesecake garnished with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of strawberry jam, and a fresh strawberry on top. The mint or rosemary sprig adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the dessert perfectly.

To elevate the dessert experience, consider serving the strawberry cheesecake with a side of vanilla bean ice cream or a scoop of lemon sorbet. The creamy richness of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the cold, refreshing contrast of the frozen treat, creating a delightful combination that will leave your guests craving more. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of the ice cream for an extra burst of citrus flavor that ties everything together harmoniously.

FAQs for Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Just thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

How can I prevent cracks on the cheesecake?

Make sure the filling is well-mixed and bake the cheesecake in a water bath or at a steady low temperature to avoid cracks.

How long should I refrigerate the cheesecake before serving?

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4–6 hours or, ideally, overnight to allow it to set properly.

Can I substitute the strawberry Greek yogurt with another flavor?

Yes, you can swap strawberry Greek yogurt for plain or another fruit-flavored yogurt to match your preference.

Conclusion

When you take that first creamy, dreamy bite of this luscious Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake, I hope it brings a smile to your face and joy to your heart. The delightful combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries is a match made in dessert heaven, perfect for any gathering or simply a treat-yourself moment.

Remember, don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe. Try different yogurt flavors and fruit toppings to make it your own signature dish. And whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy. So whip up this Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake, share it with your loved ones, and savor every delicious bite. Cheers to sweet moments and even sweeter desserts!