Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
- ½ cup strawberry jam (optional, for extra glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracking.
- Mix in the sour cream and flour until smooth.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be set and slightly puffed.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
- Cool and Chill:
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
- Prepare the Topping:
- Before serving, arrange the fresh strawberry halves on top of the cheesecake. Optionally, you can warm the strawberry jam slightly and brush it over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!