Homemade New York Style Strawberry Cheesecake

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the lower third.
2. Line a 9-inch springform pan with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil, covering the bottom and sides to prevent water from leaking during the water bath.
3. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt in a bowl until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the pan.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then set aside to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).

2. Make the Filling:

1. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in salt, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
3. Add eggs one at a time on low speed, just until combined—avoid overmixing to prevent cracking.
4. Gently beat in the sour cream until smooth.
5. Pour the batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.

3. Bake in a Water Bath:

1. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Be careful not to let water drip onto the batter.
2. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour and 40–50 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.

4. Cool and Chill:

1. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath, dry the bottom, and run a thin knife around the edges to loosen it.
2. Let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight before adding the topping.

5. Make the Strawberry Topping:

1. In a saucepan, combine half of the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 8–10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and the remaining strawberries, and let cool to room temperature.
3. Spread the topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.

6. Serve:
Slice and enjoy your homemade New York-style strawberry cheesecake!

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