Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Once baked, set it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour until just incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and silky.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble and Bake
- In a separate bowl, prepare the crumble. Whisk together the flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar.
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture forms coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
- Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries.
- Sprinkle the strawberry crumble mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight wobble.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks.
Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack.
- Once cool, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. Chilling is essential for the cheesecake to set properly.
- To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform sides. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Room Temperature is Non-Negotiable: For a lump-free filling, your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream absolutely must be at room temperature.
Don't Overmix the Eggs: Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up and then crack as it cools. Mix on low speed until just combined.
Let It Cool Gradually: The slow cooling process (in the oven with the door cracked, then on the counter) is my secret weapon for a perfectly smooth top.
Don't Overmix the Eggs: Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up and then crack as it cools. Mix on low speed until just combined.
Let It Cool Gradually: The slow cooling process (in the oven with the door cracked, then on the counter) is my secret weapon for a perfectly smooth top.
