Strawberry Cheesecake

Ingredients :

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 3 packages (8 oz each) softened cream cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups freshly cut strawberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tsp powdered sugar
• Fresh strawberries for garnish

Instructions : 

Crust:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
2. Add melted butter and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with the mixture. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract, lemon juice, and 1 cup granulated sugar; beat until smooth.
3. Gradually add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in sour cream until well combined.

Strawberry Layer:

1. In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring regularly, until the mixture thickens and strawberries soften. Allow to cool slightly.

Assembly:

1. Spread half of the cheesecake filling over the crust.
2. Layer the cooled strawberry mixture on top of the filling.
3. Cover with the remaining cheesecake filling, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Baking:

1. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan, halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is nearly set in the middle.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar, letting the cheesecake cool inside for an hour.

Finishing:

1. After cooling in the oven, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Before serving, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with fresh strawberries.

Enjoy your mouthwatering Strawberry Cheesecake!