1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thicker sauce)
For the Topping (optional):
Whipped cream
Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and lemon zest (if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined, and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s tightly and evenly packed. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, continuing to beat until fully combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
Cool the Cheesecake:
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.
Make the Strawberry Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the strawberries have released their juices and the mixture thickens slightly. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the strawberry mixture, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour the cooled strawberry sauce over the top, spreading it evenly. Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Serve:
Slice and enjoy the luscious strawberry lemon cheesecake. It’s perfect for a special occasion or just when you want to indulge in a delicious, creamy treat!
