Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Strawberry Tray Cheesecake is an easy and delicious dessert that’s perfect for a gathering of family or friends. The creamy cheesecake base is baked in a sheet pan and topped with a luscious strawberry glaze and fresh strawberries. This cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful and smooth, with the perfect balance of creaminess and sweet strawberry topping.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 13×18-inch sheet pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to press it down firmly.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Sour Cream: Add the granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure not to overmix once the eggs are added to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Pour Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- Cook the Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together the strawberry preserves, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- Add Strawberries: Stir in the sliced strawberries until they are well coated.
5. Top the Cheesecake
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Return to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.
6. Serve
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy texture and sweet strawberry topping!
Cooking Notes
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps. Room temperature cream cheese is easier to blend smoothly.
- Chill Time: Allowing the cheesecake to chill thoroughly is essential for it to set properly and achieve the best texture.
Variations
- Mixed Berry Tray Cheesecake: Use a mixture of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries instead of strawberries for a different twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the strawberry topping for an extra layer of flavor.
- No-Bake Version: For a no-bake cheesecake, use gelatin to set the filling and skip the baking step. Use pre-baked graham cracker crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Strawberry Tray Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the entire cheesecake (including the topping) up to 1-2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container or cover the tray with plastic wrap. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Strawberry Tray Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake. However, it’s best to freeze it without the strawberry topping. Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the topping and serving.
What type of pan should I use?
A 13×18-inch rimmed sheet pan (baking sheet) works best for this recipe to serve a crowd. If you don’t have a sheet pan, you can use two 9×13-inch baking dishes instead.
What can I serve with Strawberry Tray Cheesecake?
This cheesecake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprig of fresh mint for extra flair.
Strawberry Tray Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery graham cracker crust, and sweet strawberry topping is simply irresistible. Whether for a party, potluck, or family gathering, this dessert is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for more.
Try this easy and delicious recipe, and enjoy the classic flavors of cheesecake paired with sweet, juicy strawberries!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
