Ingredients
The charm of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local market, reminiscent of the bustling European marketplaces I wandered through in my twenties.
– **Graham Cracker Crust**:
– 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
– 1/3 cup of melted unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– **Cheesecake Filling**:
– 16 oz of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
– 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
– **Strawberry Topping**:
– 1 lb of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1/4 cup of water
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that is not only delightful in taste but also visually stunning, much like the vibrant displays of fresh produce I remember from the Italian markets.
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Crust**: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
2. **Make the Filling**: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
3. **Assemble the Cheesecake**: Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
4. **Prepare the Strawberry Topping**: In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften. Allow it to cool before spreading over the set cheesecake.
These steps are a dance of flavors and textures, a routine I’ve perfected over years of joyful experimentation in my kitchen, always guided by the spirit of culinary adventure instilled in me by Nonna Rosa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International