Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

**For the Crust:**
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted butter

**For the Cheesecake Filling:**
– 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

**For the Strawberry Topping:**
– 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
– Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
– Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined.
– Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

3. **Bake the Cheesecake:**
– Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
– Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. **Prepare the Strawberry Topping:**
– In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
– Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
– Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

5. **Assemble the Cheesecake:**
– Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
– Return to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

6. **Serve:**
– Remove the sides of the springform pan.
– Slice and serve the cheesecake, optionally with whipped cream on the side.

Enjoy your homemade strawberry cheesecake!