This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines the richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberry sauce. The strawberry swirl adds a beautiful marbled effect, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for any celebration or a special treat, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite!

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The balance between the smooth, rich cheesecake filling and the sweet, tangy strawberry sauce creates an irresistible flavor combination. The water bath method ensures a creamy, crack-free cheesecake, while the homemade strawberry sauce adds a burst of fruity sweetness. Whether you’re a cheesecake enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe delivers on both taste and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Sauce:
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (or frozen)
¼ cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water

For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

Cook the Strawberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the strawberries break down and release their juices.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Add this mixture to the strawberry mixture, stirring well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Blend and Strain: Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Sugar and Sour Cream: Gradually add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour the Filling: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
Add the Strawberry Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce onto the surface of the cheesecake. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the sauce into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Prepare a Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake: Place the roasting pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove it from the water bath and cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Chill: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
Release from the Pan: Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before releasing the springform pan.
Serve: Slice and serve with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or additional strawberry sauce, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12 servings
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (baking and cooling)
Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight

Variations

Berry Swirl: Swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to create a different swirl.
Chocolate Crust: For a chocolate twist, use chocolate graham crackers in place of the regular graham crackers for the crust.
Toppings: Add fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature. If desired, let slices come to room temperature before serving for a creamier texture.

FAQs

How long should I bake the cheesecake?

Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly, and the edges should be set.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to make the cheesecake a day ahead and allow it to chill in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the sauce?

Yes, frozen strawberries work just fine. You don’t need to thaw them before making the sauce.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Baking the cheesecake in a water bath and avoiding overmixing the batter can help prevent cracks from forming.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and texture.

Do I need to use a water bath for baking?

Yes, the water bath helps ensure even baking and prevents cracks in the cheesecake.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Can I use a different crust for the cheesecake?

Yes, you can experiment with different crusts, such as a chocolate cookie crust or a nut-based crust.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I add more strawberry sauce on top?

Absolutely! Feel free to drizzle more strawberry sauce on top of the cheesecake before serving for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, with its smooth cheesecake filling and sweet, tangy strawberry sauce. The marbled effect not only looks beautiful but adds layers of flavor that make each bite an indulgent experience. With a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that will impress family and friends.