If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bursting with fresh, bright flavors and creamy, dreamy texture, you have to try this Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe. It perfectly balances the tang of lemon with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or just craving something special, this cheesecake will quickly become a beloved favorite thanks to its smooth cream cheese base, zesty lemon notes, and shiny strawberry topping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to nailing this Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe. Each one plays an important role—from the crunchy, buttery crust to the perfectly tart and creamy filling, and finally the fresh, jewel-toned strawberries that crown the dessert.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy and flavorful base that holds the cheesecake together beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling, balancing the tanginess of lemon and cream cheese.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with crumbs to create the perfect buttery crust texture.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, softened for smooth, creamy texture.
- Large eggs: Binds the filling and gives structure without toughening the cheesecake.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle richness and creamy tang that enhances the lemon flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest: Delivers bright acidity and aroma, giving the cheesecake its refreshing zing.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warm, sweet undertones that round out the flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cheesecake’s depth of flavor.
- Fresh strawberries: Sliced as a juicy, colorful topping that brings lively sweetness and texture.
- Strawberry jam: Warmed and brushed on top to add gloss and amplify berry flavor.
- Whipped cream (optional): For a light, airy finishing touch.
- Lemon slices or zest (optional): Adds vibrant visual appeal and a hint of extra citrus scent.
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, a quarter cup of sugar, and the melted butter in a bowl until the mixture is evenly moistened. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust’s foundation. Bake it for 8 to 10 minutes to set it perfectly, then take it out and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling. This crust provides a buttery crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add the 3/4 cup sugar and continue beating until it’s fully incorporated and silky. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring they blend well before adding the next. Then go ahead and fold in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is where the cheesecake’s magic happens, delivering rich, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Bake your cheesecake
Pour the batter evenly over the cooled crust in the springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center appears just set but still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. This texture is the hallmark of a perfectly baked cheesecake that will set beautifully as it cools.
Step 4: Cool and chill
Once baking is done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about an hour—this slow cooling helps prevent cracks. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight so it can develop its full flavor and creamy texture. Patience here truly pays off!
Step 5: Add strawberry topping
Before serving, layer the top with freshly sliced strawberries arranged pretty and evenly. Brush the strawberries lightly with warmed strawberry jam to give a shiny glaze that not only looks stunning but also adds a sweet finish that locks in freshness. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra touch of elegance.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe lifts it from delightful to unforgettable. A swirl of whipped cream adds lightness, while lemon zest or thin lemon slices give a fresh color pop and invite you to savor the zesty brightness even before your first bite. These details make each slice feel like a celebration.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh mixed berries or a refreshing mint sprig for a palate cleanser. For a brunch or tea time spread, consider serving alongside a cup of hot green tea or a sparkling lemonade, which complements the citrus notes and keeps things light and lively.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform the presentation by cutting the cheesecake into small individual squares or elegant mini jars for party favors or potlucks. You can also layer cheesecake filling, strawberry slices, and crushed graham crackers in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers in a no-bake parfait style—still capturing the essence of the Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe in a fun new format.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake should be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. The creamy texture stays perfect for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy this deliciousness over several days without losing any flavor or moisture.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe fresh for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so it’s not typically reheated. When ready to serve from the freezer, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. Bringing it to room temperature before serving helps the flavors fully bloom.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
While fresh strawberries give the best texture and appearance, you can use frozen berries—just be sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid excess moisture making your topping soggy.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can bake the cheesecake in a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper for easier removal, but a springform pan is ideal because it helps release the cheesecake without damaging its edges.
Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?
Modifying this recipe for vegan or dairy-free needs would require suitable substitutes like vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives, but the lemon and strawberry flavors will still shine beautifully with these swaps.
Why does my cheesecake crack sometimes?
Cracks often form when the oven temperature is too high or the cheesecake cools too quickly. Cooling it slowly in the oven and avoiding overbaking helps keep the surface smooth and crack-free.
How can I get a stronger lemon flavor?
To boost lemon flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon extract or increase the lemon zest slightly. Fresh lemon juice and zest remain the best natural sources of bright citrus notes.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress friends or family with a dessert that’s both stunning and sublime, the Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe is your go-to. Each bite brings a harmonious dance of creamy, tangy, and sweet that feels like pure joy on a plate. Trust me, once you make it, this cheesecake will be a recurring delight in your dessert repertoire—you simply can’t resist its blissful charm!
Print
Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake is a creamy, tangy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth lemon-infused cream cheese filling, and a fresh strawberry topping with a glossy strawberry jam finish. This American classic dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion, combining refreshing citrus flavors with the sweetness of ripe strawberries for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (warmed)
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices or zest for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely while you prepare the filling.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 3/4 cup granulated sugar, beating continuously until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt until the batter is smooth and evenly blended.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool Slowly: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, top the cheesecake with sliced fresh strawberries. Brush the strawberries with warmed strawberry jam to give a glossy finish. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream and lemon zest or lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to prevent lumps in the batter for a smooth texture.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the filling.
- The cheesecake can be made 1 to 2 days in advance to allow flavors to meld better and ease preparation on serving day.
