Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake 

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is a creamy, rich dessert with a luscious strawberry sauce beautifully marbled through a classic vanilla cheesecake. Baked on a buttery graham cracker crust, this show-stopping treat is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want to impress with a homemade dessert.

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:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tsp water)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

   • Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

   • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Strawberry Swirl:

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

   • Cook until the strawberries break down. Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.

   • Blend until smooth and set aside to cool.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

   • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

   • Stir in vanilla and sour cream until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake:

   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan.

   • Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry sauce on top and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.

   • Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set.

   • Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.

   • Optional: top with fresh strawberries or whipped cream before serving.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 420

• Total Fat: 30g

• Saturated Fat: 18g

• Cholesterol: 120mg

• Sodium: 280mg

• Total Carbohydrate: 30g

• Sugars: 23g

• Protein: 6g