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Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake: A Creamy, Fruity Showstopper


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 1 hour 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This luscious cheesecake features a smooth, creamy filling swirled with a vibrant strawberry compote, all atop a crunchy graham cracker crust. A delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh strawberries.


Ingredients

Strawberry Swirl:

  • 1 lb strawberries, quartered

  • 2 Tbsp granulated sugar

  • 1½ Tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 Tbsp water

  • 2 tsp cornstarch

Graham Cracker Crust:

  • 175 g (about 1¾ cups) graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free, if needed)

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • ¼ tsp kosher salt

  • 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (three 8 oz blocks) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • ¾ cup (180g) sour cream, room temperature

  • 1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract

  • ¼ tsp kosher salt

  • 2 large eggs


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberry Swirl:

    • In a saucepan, combine the quartered strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.

    • Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

    • Once the strawberries have softened, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry.

    • Stir the slurry into the strawberry mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.

    • Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

  2. Prepare the Crust:

    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

    • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.

    • Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

    • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.

    • Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.

    • Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and continue to beat until well combined.

    • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  4. Assemble the Cheesecake:

    • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

    • Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry swirl mixture onto the surface of the cheesecake filling.

    • Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake filling, creating a marbled effect.

  5. Bake:

    • Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.

    • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.

    • Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before removing from the springform pan and serving.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, ensure that the graham cracker crumbs are certified gluten-free.

The strawberry swirl can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling and ensure the cheesecake cools gradually.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American