Description
This Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake is a no-bake, luscious dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust layered with a smooth and fluffy cream cheese filling mixed with fresh strawberries. Perfectly chilled, it offers a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Optional Glaze
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to set properly.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a mixer until it is smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the mixture until it becomes fully combined and creamy.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a separate bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape firmly when the beaters are lifted.
- Combine whipped cream and cream cheese mixture: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to incorporate the whipped cream carefully, maintaining a light and fluffy texture without deflating the mixture.
- Add strawberries: Fold the chopped fresh strawberries into the combined mixture gently to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Chill the cheesecake: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely and develop the best texture.
- Apply optional glaze: Before serving, optionally warm the strawberry jam slightly to make it more spreadable, then drizzle it over the top of the cheesecake to add a glossy finish and enhance the strawberry flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- The cheesecake requires several hours of refrigeration to properly set, so prepare in advance.
- Fresh strawberries can be substituted with frozen ones that are thawed and drained well.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the filling.
- The optional strawberry jam glaze adds sweetness and shine but can be omitted for a more natural look.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled and consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
