Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a visually stunning and flavorful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy zest of fresh strawberries with the smooth, creamy texture of classic cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions or casual indulgence, this recipe is easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and impresses with its beautiful vibrant swirls and balanced flavors.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Strawberry Puree
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (plus extra for puree)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the base of a springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the strawberry puree: Blend fresh strawberries with lemon juice and a small amount of granulated sugar until smooth. Set aside, reserving a few tablespoons for swirling later.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until fluffy and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing carefully to avoid overmixing.
- Combine and swirl: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry puree over the filling. Add the remaining cheesecake filling on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the puree through the batter creating beautiful patterns.
- Bake and cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) in a water bath until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly, approximately 55-65 minutes. After baking, cool the cheesecake gradually to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix to avoid air bubbles and cracks on the surface.
- Baking in a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even cooking.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly for at least 4 hours for clean slicing.
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
Keywords: strawberry, cheesecake, swirl, dessert, creamy, fruity, make-ahead, baked cheesecake