Valentine Cheesecake
This delightful Valentine Cheesecake combines rich cream cheese with fresh strawberry puree, creating a luscious dessert that's perfect for celebrating love on Valentine's Day.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish
- to taste fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature.
- Prepare your springform pan by greasing it lightly.
Bake the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes at 325°F (160°C).
Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Cooling and Refrigerating
- After baking, let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about an hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh strawberries before serving.
- Slice and serve to your loved ones for a memorable dessert experience.
Notes
To keep the cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If freezing, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.