🍓🍰 Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe 🍰🍓

A rich, creamy cheesecake with a delightful strawberry swirl that adds a touch of fruity sweetness. This cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or just as a treat for yourself!

---

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or shortbread cookie crumbs)
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures a steady, even bake for your cheesecake.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs (or shortbread cookie crumbs), melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and have a sandy texture.
3. Pour the crumb mixture into a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Using the bottom of a flat glass or a spoon, press the crumbs firmly into an even layer at the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until it sets and has a slightly golden color. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.

---

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Swirl

1. In a small saucepan, combine pureed fresh strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat.
2. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes or until it slightly thickens. This will create a smooth, slightly syrupy consistency that will swirl beautifully into the cheesecake batter.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the strawberry mixture cool to room temperature.

---

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Make sure not to overbeat, as this can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined, creating a silky-smooth batter.

---

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Add spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry mixture on top of the batter. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the strawberry sauce into the batter to create a marbled effect.
3. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the first layer and repeat the swirling process with more strawberry sauce on top. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct swirls rather than fully blended batter.

---

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. To prevent cracking, use a water bath. Wrap the outside of the springform pan in two layers of aluminum foil, ensuring no water can seep in. Place the pan inside a large roasting dish and fill the dish with 1 inch of hot water.
2. Carefully place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
3. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes that might cause cracks.

---

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and ensures a firm texture.
2. When ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra strawberry sauce if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake! 🍓🍰 A creamy, fruity, and indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.