🍰 Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake 🍰

Savor the Sweetness of Every Slice! Perfect for dessert lovers and a showstopper for any family gathering or special occasion.

🍽️ Ingredients 🍽️

For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar

For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Crust:
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

🧑‍🍳 Directions 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the Crust:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, blending until well combined. Incorporate eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   Pour the filling over your pre-baked crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are just turning golden. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
   Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Serve:
   Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Just before serving, top with the strawberry mixture.

🍎 Nutritional Information 🍎
Per serving:
- Calories: 512
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 37g

💡 Tips and Tricks 💡
- For an extra glossy topping, you can add a thin layer of apricot jam over the strawberries.
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature to achieve a smoother filling.

⏳ Preparation Time ⏳
Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Serving: 12