Ingredients
Scale
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (8 ounce) package of cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing and flouring it. In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even crust.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Beat in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 3: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
- Step 4: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool slowly.
- Step 5: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Step 6: Before serving, top with sliced strawberries and dust with powdered sugar. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before serving.
Notes
- Store leftover cheesecake, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a warmer, more decadent experience, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream alongside for an extra touch of indulgence.
- To prevent cracking, ensure your cream cheese is completely softened and at room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smoother, more stable batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American