Description
This Strawberry Lemonade Cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert with a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet strawberry flavors. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich lemon-infused cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, this cheesecake is a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, lemon zest, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
-
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and flour until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter over the cooled crust.
-
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
Make the Strawberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Let cool, then spread over the chilled cheesecake.
-
Serve:
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, blend the topping before spreading.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American