Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 32 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar on medium-low speed until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Simmer strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan until softened. Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water, simmering for 2 more minutes until thick and glossy. Let cool.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry reduction on top and use a skewer or knife to swirl into a marble pattern.
- Wrap the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil and place in a large roasting pan filled with hot water (water bath).
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 90 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour to cool slowly.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours before slicing and serving.