Classic Strawberry Cheesecake

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted)
• Cream cheese (2 packages (8 ounces each), softened)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Eggs (3 large)
• Fresh strawberries (2 cups, hulled and sliced)
• Whipped cream (to garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the eggs to the cream cheese mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Ensure not to overbeat as it can incorporate too much air, which might lead to cracks.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set at the edges and the center is just slightly wobbly.
8. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack to room temperature. This slow cooling process helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
9. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to fully set.
10. Before serving, arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your homemade classic strawberry cheesecake!