Next Level Baked Strawberry Cheesecake
Next Level Baked Strawberry Cheesecake is a rich yet refreshing dessert that combines a creamy cheesecake base with vibrant fresh strawberries baked to perfection. This indulgent cheesecake offers a perfectly balanced flavor, silky texture, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free preferences.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Total Time: 4 hrs 35 mins (including chilling time)
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free crust option)
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs/almond flour for gluten-free)
- 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter for dairy-free)
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the Strawberry Puree: Blend the fresh strawberries until smooth. Set aside.
- Whip the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and blend until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.
- Combine Strawberry Puree with Filling: Fold the strawberry puree gently into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed without overmixing.
- Bake and Cool: Pour the batter over the crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly wobbles. Cool gradually in oven with door ajar, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth batter.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks and maintain a light texture.
- For best results, bake cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even cooking.
- Refrigerate overnight to develop flavor and achieve firm slices.
- Use ripe, in-season strawberries for optimal sweetness and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, baked cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, gluten-free dessert, fruity cheesecake, summer dessert