Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake: A Slice of Summer Bliss

Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake: A Slice of Summer Bliss

Strawberry lemon cheesecake is the perfect dessert to bring a touch of sunshine to any occasion. The tangy lemon, combined with the sweet burst of strawberries, offers a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake base. This recipe is not only delicious but also showcases a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Lemon Curd Topping:

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

For the Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
• Whipped cream
• Lemon slices or zest (optional)
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth it out.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until well combined and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the filling is smooth and fully incorporated.
   • Arrange the sliced strawberries over the cooled crust, then pour the cheesecake filling over the strawberries, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
   • After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
4. Prepare the Lemon Curd:
   • In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs over medium heat.
   • Add the butter, one piece at a time, whisking constantly until the curd thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Once thickened, remove the curd from the heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
   • Allow the lemon curd to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cheesecake.
5. Chill the Cheesecake:
   • Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Just before serving, garnish the cheesecake with fresh strawberry slices, dollops of whipped cream, and lemon slices or zest if desired.
   • Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Layering: Arranging fresh strawberry slices between the crust and the filling adds a delightful burst of berry flavor in every bite.
• Lemon Curd: Homemade lemon curd is easy to make and adds a bright, tangy topping that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake. If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought lemon curd.
• Garnishing: For an elegant presentation, garnish the cheesecake just before serving. Fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar create a stunning contrast against the yellow lemon curd.

This strawberry lemon cheesecake is a showstopper dessert that combines the best of both fruity and creamy worlds. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it perfect for any special occasion, from summer gatherings to festive holidays. With its buttery crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and tangy lemon curd, this dessert is sure to be a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy!