Who doesn’t love the classic combination of strawberries and cream? These two beloved ingredients come together in this indulgent yet sophisticated dessert: Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake. This cheesecake features a rich and creamy filling made from fresh cream cheese and a perfect touch of vanilla, nestled on a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust. Topped with a sweet, tangy strawberry sauce and fresh strawberry slices, this dessert is a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

The marriage of smooth, creamy cheesecake and the burst of fresh, juicy strawberries creates a harmony of textures and flavors that is nothing short of irresistible. It’s a dessert that pleases the palate and looks as good as it tastes. If you love classic cheesecakes but are looking for something with a fruity twist, this strawberries and cream version is perfect for you. Each bite is creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet – a slice of heaven for anyone who enjoys the combination of fresh fruit and creamy indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The creamy cheesecake filling balances perfectly with the tart sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s the kind of dessert that’s rich yet refreshing, indulgent but not overwhelmingly heavy.
Fresh Ingredients: This cheesecake makes use of fresh strawberries, so you get that natural fruit sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich, tangy cream cheese filling. The strawberry topping is made from scratch, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
Delightfully Smooth Texture: The texture of this cheesecake is incredibly smooth and velvety, with a satisfying, slightly tangy flavor from the cream cheese base. Every bite is a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Simple Yet Elegant Presentation: The vibrant red strawberries on top of the white, creamy cheesecake look stunning, making this dessert a perfect choice for elegant events like dinner parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations.
Versatile and Customizable: You can make this cheesecake to suit different tastes. Want a thicker crust? Use more graham crackers. Want to make the filling richer? Add more cream cheese or a bit of heavy cream. You can also add other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, if you want to change things up.
A Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dessert that appeals to almost everyone. Whether it’s a big family gathering or a small get-together, this cheesecake will be a hit. The strawberries and cream flavor is universally loved, and the presentation always elicits oohs and aahs.
Make-Ahead Convenience: This cheesecake is ideal for meal prepping or making ahead of time. The longer it sits, the more the flavors have a chance to meld together, making it an even better dessert the next day. You can easily prepare it the night before a gathering and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Comforting Yet Elegant: Whether you’re indulging on a cozy evening or presenting it as the star of a special occasion, this dessert strikes the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. It feels both familiar and refined, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.

Preparation Time and Yield

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling time)
Yield: Serves 10-12 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 22g

Note: Nutritional values are based on one serving (1 slice) of the cheesecake. The exact values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions or modifications.

Ingredients for Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ cup heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar together. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly coated and the crumbs are slightly damp. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to firmly press the crust into place. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, pour in the heavy cream and beat for another 1-2 minutes until the filling is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly wobbly. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. After that, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping

While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the strawberry topping. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the topping cool to room temperature. Once cool, spread the strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with additional fresh strawberry slices around the edges. For the perfect slice, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan before removing the sides. Slice and enjoy this luscious strawberries and cream cheesecake, perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat.

Ingredient Background

Graham Crackers

Graham crackers form the perfect base for many dessert crusts, particularly cheesecakes. Originally created by Sylvester Graham in the early 19th century as part of a dietary reform movement, graham crackers are made from whole-wheat flour, offering a subtle sweetness and a slightly nutty flavor. In the context of a cheesecake crust, graham crackers provide a crisp, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy filling. Their mild flavor enhances the overall experience without overwhelming the other ingredients. When mixed with butter and sugar, they become the perfect vehicle for holding together the richness of the cheesecake.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is the heart of this cheesecake’s creamy texture. Made from a mixture of milk and cream, cream cheese has a smooth, spreadable texture with a mild tang. This ingredient is essential for creating the luxurious, velvety filling that characterizes a good cheesecake. Its rich, creamy profile pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of sugar and the tartness of fresh fruit toppings, making it a universally loved ingredient. Cream cheese is high in fat and calories but also provides some protein, contributing to the cheesecake’s satisfying nature. Whether you use full-fat or light cream cheese, it remains the cornerstone of this dessert’s decadent flavor.

Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are not only visually appealing but also play a key role in balancing the richness of the cheesecake filling with their bright, fruity sweetness. Strawberries are a favorite for many desserts due to their natural sugars and slight acidity, which complement the creamy and slightly tangy nature of the cheesecake. Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, strawberries add a refreshing element to the dessert, providing a natural contrast to the dense, creamy filling. The addition of fresh strawberries as a topping creates a vibrant finish, making the cheesecake look as good as it tastes.

Technique Tips for Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake

When preparing a cheesecake, the key to achieving a smooth, crack-free result lies in how you treat the batter and bake it. First, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese will create lumps and prevent the filling from becoming perfectly smooth. Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting. Additionally, avoid overbeating the filling once the eggs are added, as this can incorporate too much air into the mixture, potentially leading to cracks in the cheesecake during baking.

Baking the cheesecake at a lower temperature, around 325°F (165°C), ensures that the filling cooks evenly and slowly. High heat can cause the cheesecake to puff up rapidly and crack as it cools. Another helpful tip is to use a water bath (or bain-marie). Placing the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with water while baking helps regulate the temperature around the cheesecake, resulting in a creamy, smooth texture without the risk of cracks. The water should come halfway up the side of the cheesecake pan.

Lastly, patience is essential when it comes to cooling and chilling the cheesecake. Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar before refrigerating helps prevent temperature shock, which can cause cracks. After the cheesecake has fully cooled, refrigerate it for at least four hours or overnight to allow the filling to set completely. Chilling it for an extended period also helps the flavors meld together and makes the cheesecake easier to slice.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While this strawberries and cream cheesecake is already a visually stunning dessert, there are ways to elevate the presentation even further. If you’re hosting a more casual gathering or want to serve individual portions, consider turning the cheesecake into a mini, single-serving dessert. You can prepare smaller cheesecakes in muffin tins or even use mason jars for a charming presentation. This way, each guest gets their own personal-sized cheesecake, topped with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of the strawberry sauce. These mini cheesecakes are perfect for parties, and their portable nature adds to their appeal.

Another fun idea is to serve the cheesecake as a “cheesecake bar.” Instead of placing the strawberry topping directly on the cheesecake, serve it on the side along with other topping options like crushed graham crackers, chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or even caramel sauce. This allows guests to customize their slices and adds an interactive element to your dessert table.

For an elegant touch, you can opt for a more rustic presentation by serving the cheesecake on a wooden cake stand or platter. Garnish the top with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also add an extra layer of freshness to the overall flavor profile. Serving the cheesecake this way at a wedding, bridal shower, or upscale dinner party will make a memorable impression on your guests.

Freezing and Storing Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake

One of the benefits of making a cheesecake is its ability to be stored for later enjoyment, and Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake is no exception. Once the cheesecake has fully set in the refrigerator, it can be covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. The longer the cheesecake sits, the more the flavors will develop, making it an ideal dessert to prepare ahead of time.

If you want to freeze the cheesecake, it’s also an excellent option for longer storage. Once the cheesecake has completely cooled and chilled in the fridge, remove it from the pan, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. When stored properly, cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving.

It’s important to note that while the cheesecake itself freezes well, the strawberry topping is best added fresh. Freezing the topping may cause the strawberries to lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing. For the best results, prepare the strawberry topping on the day you plan to serve the cheesecake.

Healthier Twist Ideas

While this strawberries and cream cheesecake is a decadent dessert, there are a few ways you can lighten it up while still keeping it delicious. One simple swap is to use a lighter version of cream cheese, such as Neufchatel cheese, which has fewer calories and fat than regular cream cheese. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt in place of part of the sour cream to reduce the fat content and add an extra boost of protein.

For a lower-sugar version, try using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of granulated sugar. These alternatives provide the sweetness without the added calories. Additionally, you could opt for a gluten-free crust by using crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour, catering to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor.

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count even further, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. These substitutions will still give the cheesecake a creamy texture, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile. Reducing the portion size can also help keep the indulgence in check while still allowing you to enjoy a slice of this heavenly dessert.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that can fit perfectly into many different events and celebrations. For a family gathering, it serves as the perfect finale to a casual meal, offering a balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that appeal to both adults and children. Slice the cheesecake into generous portions and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

For a more formal event like a wedding or dinner party, the cheesecake can be served as a stand-alone dessert or part of a dessert table featuring various treats. Its striking visual appeal makes it a natural centerpiece, and the balance of flavors pairs well with other elegant options such as chocolate mousse, fruit tarts, or macarons.

At a summer barbecue or picnic, you can serve the cheesecake in smaller portions for easy, handheld eating. Keep the topping simple with fresh strawberries or include a variety of other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a colorful and refreshing treat. This dessert is also an excellent choice for holidays like Easter or Mother’s Day, offering a light yet indulgent option for those who may be looking for a break from richer, heavier desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the cheesecake without a springform pan?

Yes, if you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular 9-inch round cake pan. Just be sure to line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal. You may also want to use a knife to loosen the edges of the cheesecake before removing it from the pan.

2. Can I make the crust with something other than graham crackers?

Absolutely! You can use other cookie crumbs like digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with a bit of sugar and melted butter.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries work best for the topping, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just be aware that frozen strawberries can release more liquid, which may affect the texture of the topping. You may need to simmer the mixture a bit longer to reduce excess moisture.

4. Can I make a no-bake version of this cheesecake?

Yes, you can make a no-bake version of this cheesecake by simply using gelatin or agar-agar to set the filling instead of baking it. Just prepare the filling as directed, pour it into the crust, and refrigerate for several hours until firm.

Strawberries and Cream Cheesecake