Sometimes, a simple thing can lead you to a new-found obsession. For me, it was tasting strawberry cheesecake for the first time. What began as a simple dessert during a cafe visit turned into a personal project of learning how to bake it myself. The combination of the creamy filling and the sweet strawberries made it a balanced and enjoyable dessert, and I wanted to see if I could make something similar on my own.

The cheesecake I had at that cafe stood out from others. The blend of textures and flavours intrigued me and stayed in my mind. I realised I wanted to teach myself how to bake it—not just to savour it again, but also to understand its creation and to make a version I would enjoy just as much.

What drew me in even more was how adaptable cheesecake could be. I could try different fruits, change the crust, or adjust the filling to suit different tastes. It’s a recipe that leaves room for personal touches yet remains familiar and easy to share. So, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a slice of heaven with every bite.

Ingredients

For the crust

• 1 ½ cups Graham Cracker crumbs ( I used Marie biscuits)

• ¼ cup sugar

• 6 tablespoons melted butter

• A pinch of salt

For the filling

• 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup heavy cream

• A pinch of salt

For the strawberry topping

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, slice it

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thicker syrup)

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and beautifully.

Prepare the crust

• Mix the Graham Cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl.

• Press this mixture into the bottom of the baking pan, creating a compact, even layer.

• Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until golden brown 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 sugar and vanilla extract and continue to mix until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

• Then, mix the sour cream, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt until the batter is smooth and velvety.

Bake the cheesecake

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled Graham Cracker crust.

• Tap the pan on the counter gently to release any air bubbles.

• Place the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centre still remains slightly jiggly.

• Turn off the oven and let the cake cool inside for one hour.

Cool and chill

• Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least four hours (or overnight for the best results).

• This chilling time allows the flavours to meld together and the cake to firm up perfectly.

Prepare the strawberry topping

• While the cheesecake chills, make the strawberry topping.

• Combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.

• Cook on medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.

• For a thicker topping, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the mixture, cooking for another two to three minutes.

• Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Make the topping

• When ready to serve, top your chilled cheesecake with homemade strawberry syrup and fresh strawberry slices for that extra burst of flavour and colour.

• Slice, serve, and prepare for a wave of compliments!

Pro tips for perfection

• Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened for a super smooth cheesecake filling.

• If you prefer a lighter crust, you can replace half of the graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or even Oreos for a twist.

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the strawberries for a decadent finish!

That first taste of strawberry cheesecake didn’t just lead me to try baking—it opened the door to a quiet, satisfying routine in the kitchen. It’s interesting how something as simple as dessert can encourage you to slow down, learn something new, and enjoy the process. Now, whenever I make my own version at home, I think back to that calm afternoon at the café and the small moment that started it all.

If you’ve ever been curious about baking or want to enjoy a good dessert, why not give it a go? Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and try making that strawberry cheesecake yourself.