Strawberry White Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the delicate sweetness of white chocolate with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries. This indulgent cheesecake features a smooth, velvety filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a luscious strawberry topping. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of rich white chocolate and fresh strawberries
- Creamy and smooth texture with a buttery crust
- Elegant and visually stunning for special occasions
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience
- A crowd-pleasing dessert with a luxurious flavor
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- White chocolate, melted
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon juice
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the melted white chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
- Stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake in a water bath for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Make the Strawberry Topping
- In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices.
- Stir in cornstarch mixed with water and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Let the topping cool before spreading over the cheesecake.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the cheesecake from the pan and transfer to a serving plate.
- Spread the strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Cooling and Chilling Time: 5 hours or overnight
Variations
- Berry Mix: Use a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for a mixed berry topping.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a deeper flavor.
- No-Bake Option: Skip baking and use a no-bake cheesecake filling with whipped cream and gelatin for structure.
- Cookie Crust: Use crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.
- Lemon Infusion: Add lemon zest to the filling for a bright citrus note.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: Cheesecake is best served cold, but if needed, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Use a water bath, avoid overmixing the batter, and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking.
What type of white chocolate should I use?
Use high-quality white chocolate bars instead of chips for a smoother texture.
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, it actually tastes better when made a day ahead as the flavors meld together.
Do I have to use a water bath?
A water bath helps prevent cracks, but if you skip it, bake at a lower temperature and cool the cheesecake slowly.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust works well as an alternative to graham crackers.
How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle when shaken.
Can I make mini cheesecakes instead?
Yes, divide the mixture into cupcake liners and bake for about 20 minutes.
How do I get clean slices when cutting?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Is this cheesecake overly sweet?
No, the balance of white chocolate and strawberries creates a rich but not overpowering sweetness.
Conclusion
Strawberry White Chocolate Cheesecake is an elegant and decadent dessert that combines smooth white chocolate with the natural sweetness of strawberries. Whether served at a holiday gathering, a birthday, or simply as a treat, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress with its luxurious flavor and creamy texture.