If you have a soft spot for desserts that combine bursts of fruity freshness with a cozy hint of spice, then you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe. Imagine biting into a creamy, velvety cheesecake mixed with juicy strawberries, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust with a surprise sprinkle of cinnamon cereal that adds just the right crunch and warmth. This dessert is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that looks as stunning as it tastes, perfect for celebrations or a sweet everyday treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome, and flavorful ingredients is key to capturing the magic of this cheesecake. Each component works harmoniously to create the perfect balance of creamy texture, sweet and tangy notes, and a subtly spicy crunch.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This classic base brings buttery richness and a slightly sweet crunch to the crust.
- 1/3 cup melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together while adding depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the crust to complement the filling.
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cinnamon cereal: A delightful twist that provides a warm spice and satisfying crispness on top of the crust.
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake, smooth and rich with every bite.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling perfectly without overpowering the strawberries.
- 3 eggs: Give the cheesecake its structure and luscious texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the sweetness brilliantly.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps to stabilize the filling so it sets just right.
- 1 cup diced strawberries: Fresh and juicy, they bring a natural burst of color and fruity flavor throughout.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a consistent baking temperature. Next, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and sugar, mixing until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a sturdy base for your cheesecake. This crust will add the perfect crunchy yet buttery foundation to your dessert.
Step 2: Add the Cinnamon Cereal Crunch
Once the crust is evenly pressed, sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal over the top. This step introduces an unexpected layer of warmth and texture that complements both the crust and the creamy filling. The cinnamon flavor resonates through every bite, making the cheesecake truly stand out.
Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until you achieve a velvety smooth texture. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This careful mixing prevents overbeating, which can cause cracks after baking. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour to build a rich and creamy batter.
Step 4: Incorporate the Fresh Strawberries
Gently fold in the diced strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. These juicy pieces of fruit will beautifully punctuate the creamy filling, adding little bursts of sweetness and a gorgeous pop of red that makes this cheesecake visually stunning.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake batter carefully over the crust and cinnamon cereal layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken. This gentle jiggle means the cheesecake will finish setting perfectly as it cools.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait that long, to let all the flavors meld together and the texture develop its signature creaminess.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cheesecake’s presentation, top it with additional fresh strawberry slices and a light dusting of cinnamon powder. A few sprigs of fresh mint can add a refreshing green contrast, while a drizzle of strawberry glaze or honey will give it an inviting shine that everybody will love.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for added indulgence. If you want to keep things lighter, a simple fruit salad featuring berries and citrus can complement the rich dessert while refreshing your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual cheesecake portions in pretty glass jars layered with extra crushed cinnamon cereal on top. You can also create a beautiful cheesecake trifle by layering cake pieces, strawberry compote, and cream cheese filling in a large glass bowl for a crowd-pleasing display that tastes as good as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe stays fresh for up to four days when tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it chilled to maintain that creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover slices by wrapping each piece individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. When properly stored, the cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve its lovely texture.
Reheating
Because cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen cheesecake to thaw completely in the refrigerator. If you prefer the flavors a bit more pronounced, let it sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for the best texture and flavor, but if frozen berries are all you have, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before folding into the batter to avoid adding extra moisture.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan makes removal easier, but you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper. Just be gentle when unmolding, and chill the cheesecake well for stability.
Can I substitute the cinnamon cereal with something else?
Certainly! If you don’t have cinnamon cereal on hand, try crushed cinnamon graham crackers or cinnamon-spiced nuts for a similar warm, crunchy effect.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter, and bake the cheesecake in a slightly lower temperature if needed. Cooling the cheesecake gradually by letting it sit in the oven with the door slightly ajar after baking can also help prevent cracks.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday dessert?
Absolutely! The blend of cinnamon, strawberries, and creamy cheesecake makes this recipe a wonderful choice for festive gatherings. It’s elegant, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe is like inviting a little slice of happiness into your kitchen. With its rich creaminess, delightful crunch, and fresh fruitiness, it’s a dessert that’s simple enough for any occasion but special enough to be your new favorite. So gather your ingredients and dive into an unforgettable cheesecake adventure—you won’t regret it!
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Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake features a crunchy graham cracker and cinnamon cereal crust topped with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling studded with fresh strawberries. Baked to perfection and chilled for optimal flavor and texture, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or a indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cinnamon cereal
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup diced strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until evenly moistened, then press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust layer.
- Add Cereal Layer: Evenly sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal over the prepared crust to add a crunchy texture contrast.
- Make Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the diced strawberries ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling mixture over the crust and cinnamon cereal layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to fully set and develop the flavors.
- Serve: Release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, serve chilled, and enjoy this delicious dessert!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together when slicing.
- Use fresh ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Refrigeration time of 4 hours or more is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly.
- You can substitute cinnamon cereal with a similar cinnamon-flavored crunchy cereal if preferred.
