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Delicious Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries.

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

A creamy, rich cheesecake with vibrant strawberry swirls that balances sweetness and tanginess, perfect for special occasions or weekend baking.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Strawberry Sauce
  • 1.5 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid.
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar Adjust based on sweetness of strawberries.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adds brightness to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water Thickens the sauce.
For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Finely crushed for even packing.
  • 0.33 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the crust.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Can use browned butter for added flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened Use full-fat blocks for the best texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the filling.
  • 3 large eggs Add one at a time to avoid overmixing.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor.
  • 1 cup sour cream Adds a subtle tang.
  • 0.25 cups heavy cream Provides creaminess.

Method
 

Make the Strawberry Sauce
  1. Place strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook until the berries soften, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Use a potato masher or fork to break them into a coarse or smooth puree based on preference.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat and cool completely; strain if desired.
Prepare and Bake the Crust
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a medium bowl mix graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined and pack firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake for 8–10 minutes to set the crust, then allow it to cool while you make the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
  1. In a large bowl beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid incorporating too much air.
  3. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Assemble and Swirl
  1. Pour filling onto the cooled crust and smooth the top.
  2. Drop spoonfuls of cooled strawberry sauce across the surface and use a knife or skewer to create a marbled pattern.
  3. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and add 1–2 inches of hot water to the outer dish for a water bath.
Bake, Cool, and Chill
  1. Bake for 55–65 minutes until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
  2. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
  3. Remove from the water bath, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Notes

For best texture, chill for at least 6 hours; overnight is ideal. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.