Description
Indulge in a luxuriously dense and velvety strawberry cheesecake that skips the stress of a water bath for a perfectly smooth finish. Topped with a vibrant, homemade fresh strawberry glaze, this reliable dessert is the ultimate centerpiece for any celebration or summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 250g plain sweet biscuits (Graham Crackers or Digestives)
- 125g unsalted butter, melted
- 750g full-fat block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup caster sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 250g fresh strawberries, diced (for sauce)
- 250g fresh strawberries, halved (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a springform pan, lining the base and sides with parchment paper.
- Process biscuits into fine crumbs, combine with melted butter, and press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then stir in the flour, vanilla, sour cream, sugar, and lemon zest.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid adding excess air bubbles.
- Pour the batter into the crust and bake for 55 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely inside with the door propped open slightly to prevent cracking.
- For the topping, simmer diced strawberries, extra sugar, and lemon juice until broken down; stir in the cornstarch slurry and fresh strawberry halves.
- Once the topping has cooled and the cheesecake has chilled for at least 4 hours, spoon the strawberry sauce over the top before serving.
Notes
For the cleanest slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between every single cut. Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature before starting to prevent a lumpy texture without the need for over-beating the batter.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American