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Zesty Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake combines the perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tangy lemons in a creamy, smooth cheesecake. This dessert is refreshing, rich, and bursting with vibrant flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s an ideal treat for any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert! Here’s how to make this indulgent yet zesty dessert:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree (fresh or from frozen strawberries)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken)
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, covering the entire base evenly.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and slightly firm. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 3 minutes).
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Finally, add the strawberry puree and gently fold it into the mixture to create a light marbled effect. If you prefer a fully blended pink color, you can mix it completely.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly (it will firm up as it cools). The edges should be lightly golden.
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set and chill.
4. Make the Strawberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juice (about 5-7 minutes).
- If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan. Stir until the sauce thickens (another 2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature before serving.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Spoon the strawberry topping over the cheesecake, spreading it out evenly.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
- Slice and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful Zesty Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake!
Tips:
- To make a smoother cheesecake, make sure your cream cheese is softened fully before mixing.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling or topping.
- This cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for longer storage (up to 1-2 months).
- For a twist, try adding a handful of crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut to the strawberry topping for added texture.
This Zesty Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake is a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, with a smooth, creamy texture that will leave everyone wanting more.
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