Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Equipment Needed
– 9-inch springform pan
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer
– Rubber spatula
– Parchment paper
– Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C), and prepare your springform pan by lightly greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form your crust, which is the perfect base for the cheesecake. Bake it for about 10 minutes until it’s set and fragrant—it really fills my kitchen with warmth and anticipation! (See the next page below to continue steps…)