The Story & Introduction
Every time I make this Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake, I’m transported right back to my grandmother’s kitchen in Crete. Even though cheesecake isn’t traditionally Greek, my grandmother loved experimenting, especially around the holidays. She always said Christmas desserts should feel like a warm hug sweet, comforting, and filled with memories. The first time we made a cheesecake together, she insisted we add fresh fruit because “color brings joy,” and that little phrase has stayed with me ever since.
Today, I keep that tradition alive every time I bake this Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake. The creamy, velvety filling reminds me of slow winter afternoons, while the glossy strawberries on top shine like tiny ornaments on a holiday tree. I love how this dessert brings people together friends sneaking into the kitchen for a little taste, kids staring wide-eyed at the bright red glaze, and families gathering around the table waiting for that first slice.
As someone who grew up cooking on the beautiful island of Crete, I always try to keep things simple but full of flavor. That’s exactly why this Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake is one of my favorites. It’s easy enough for beginners, special enough for Christmas dinner, and completely customizable. You can play with toppings, swirl strawberry puree into the batter, or even turn the whole thing into mini cheesecakes. But nothing beats the classic look: a snowy-white cheesecake under a glossy red crown of holiday strawberries.
Cooking has always been about more than food for me it’s about sharing little pieces of my life, my home, and my heart. And this Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake feels like the perfect way to do that. Whether you’re making it for your family, your friends, or even just for yourself (because you deserve it!), I hope this recipe brings you the same warmth and joy it brings me every December.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but delicious)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Strawberry Christmas Topping
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, halved
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until everything comes together like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Make sure the crust is even this will help each slice look picture-perfect. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until the texture becomes creamy and glossy. Blend in the sour cream and vanilla, keeping your mixer on low to avoid too much air. Sprinkle in the flour, then add the eggs one at a time. Mix gently and stop as soon as everything is combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes. The center should look slightly wobbly don’t worry, it will set as it cools.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks.
After that, remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Christmas Topping
In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and gently fold in the strawberry halves until they’re coated and shiny.
Let the topping cool completely before placing it onto the cheesecake.
5. Assemble the Christmas Cheesecake
Spoon the glazed strawberries on top of your chilled cheesecake. Arrange them however you like neatly in a circle or scattered for a rustic holiday look.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake is best served chilled. If you want to make it feel extra festive, add:
✨ A dusting of powdered sugar (like snow!)
✨ White chocolate curls
✨ A mint leaf “holly” garnish
Serve with hot chocolate, chai, or your favorite holiday drink.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- If you want an even deeper strawberry flavor, swirl strawberry puree into the filling before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- The cheesecake gets better after 24 hours in the fridge!
Nutrition (Per Slice)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 6g
🎄 Recipe Card (with Emojis!)
🍰 Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake
Time ⏱️
Prep: 20 min
Bake: 60 min
Chill: 4 hrs
Ingredients 📝
All ingredients listed above.
Instructions 👩🍳
- Prepare crust. Bake 10 min.
- Mix filling and pour over crust.
- Bake 55–65 min. Cool in oven 1 hr.
- Chill 4 hrs.
- Add glazed strawberries.
Notes 🧁
Best when chilled overnight.
Nutrition ❤️
Approx. 420 calories per slice.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake is more than just a holiday dessert it’s a celebration of flavor, memories, and the joy of cooking together. Every bite brings a little sweetness, a little nostalgia, and a whole lot of festive cheer. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or sharing this cheesecake as a gift, it’s a dessert that brings warmth to any Christmas table. I hope it becomes part of your holiday traditions just like it became part of mine.
100-Word Short Version with Your Story
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete, and this Strawberry Christmas Cheesecake is one of my favorite holiday desserts. It reminds me of baking with my grandmother, who always believed that festive dishes should be colorful and full of joy. This creamy baked cheesecake topped with glossy glazed strawberries brings that tradition to life. It’s simple, warm, and perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holidays. Whether you’re new to baking or already comfortable in the kitchen, this recipe brings together comfort, flavor, and holiday magic exactly the way Christmas should feel.