Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Introduction

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both creamy and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, this Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is the perfect treat! 🍓🍰

This homemade cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and rich vanilla cheesecake filling, and a gorgeous homemade strawberry swirl that adds a pop of color and flavor. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet, making it an ideal dessert for special occasions, holidays, or just because you’re craving something delicious!

Making cheesecake from scratch may seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a perfectly baked, crack-free cheesecake with a beautiful swirl pattern.

Ingredients (in Grams)

For the Crust:

200g graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
80g unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar

For the Strawberry Swirl:

150g fresh strawberries, chopped
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon (15ml) water

For the Cheesecake Filling:

500g cream cheese, softened
200g granulated sugar
3 large eggs (150g total)
200g sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (10g) all-purpose flour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Swirl Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water over medium heat.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens.
Blend until smooth, then strain to remove seeds (optional). Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing just until combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Assemble & Swirl

Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry sauce onto the batter.
Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the sauce into the cheesecake.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Water Bath Method (Recommended for a Crack-Free Cheesecake):
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish.
- Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake at 160°C (325°F) for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 6: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) for the best texture.
Before serving, drizzle extra strawberry sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Per Slice – Based on 10 Servings)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 22g
Sugar: 25g

(Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.)

Tips and Tricks

1. How to Avoid Cracks in Your Cheesecake

Use the water bath method for even baking.
Do not overmix the batter to avoid air bubbles.
Let the cheesecake cool gradually inside the oven before refrigerating.

2. Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?

Yes! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before making the sauce.

3. How to Store & Freeze Cheesecake

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Want a Chocolate Twist?

Add melted white chocolate (100g) to the batter for a decadent upgrade.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

✅ Creamy, rich, and full of fresh strawberry flavor
✅ Beautiful swirls make it look like a bakery-style dessert
✅ Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion
✅ Easy-to-follow recipe with simple ingredients