If you’re searching for a dessert that brings together cozy warmth and fresh, fruity brightness, you’ve just found your new favorite treat. This Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe perfectly balances the buttery, slightly crunchy graham cracker base with a luscious cinnamon cereal layer and a creamy cheesecake filling studded with sweet diced strawberries. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors—comforting, nostalgic, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this cheesecake plays a crucial role, combining simplicity with a touch of spice and sweetness that creates a memorable dessert. From the graham cracker crumbs that form a buttery crust to the fresh strawberries that brighten the cheesecake filling, these components are essential for that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a classic, crunchy base with a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that’s perfect for cheesecake.
- Melted butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds moist richness to the crust.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the crust so every bite has a little caramelized touch.
- Crushed cinnamon cereal: Adds a warm, spicy crunch layer that sets this cheesecake apart.
- Cream cheese (24 oz, softened): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, giving that smooth and tangy base everyone loves.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling gently to complement the strawberries and cinnamon notes.
- Eggs (3): Helps bind the filling together for a firm yet creamy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings out the rich flavors and adds a lovely aroma.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a slight tang and extra creaminess to deepen the flavor.
- Flour (1/4 cup): Provides structure so the cheesecake holds its shape without cracking.
- Diced strawberries (1 cup): Bursts of fresh sweetness that brighten every creamy forkful.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Mix until everything is evenly moistened, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This will form the buttery, crunchy base that holds your cheesecake together. After pressing it down smoothly, sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal evenly over the crust for that unique spicy crunch.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until the mixture is silky smooth. This is the foundation of your creamy cheesecake filling. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a light texture. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, combining everything evenly. Finally, gently fold in the diced strawberries to distribute their bright flavor throughout the batter without breaking them up.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your luscious cheesecake mixture on top of the prepared crust and cinnamon cereal layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about one hour, or until the cheesecake is set but still has just a hint of wobble in the center. This slow bake will give your Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe that perfect creamy yet firm texture. Once baked, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Step 4: Chill and Set
To really let the flavors marry and achieve that beautiful sliceable firmness, chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. This step is key—it transforms your homemade cheesecake into a stunning, rich dessert ready to impress.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving game, consider topping each slice with extra fresh strawberries or a light dusting of cinnamon powder. A dollop of whipped cream adds a cloud-like softness that pairs beautifully with the spice and sweetness. Crushed graham crackers sprinkled on top can bring back that delightful crunch for contrast.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A bright mixed berry compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm cinnamon and creamy cheesecake flavors. For coffee lovers, a rich espresso or cinnamon-spiced latte works beautifully to round out the dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the cheesecake and serve it on individual dessert plates with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or melted chocolate. Another idea is to serve mini versions in mason jars layered with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon cereal, creating a fun and portable treat that captures all the flavors of the Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and creamy. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal texture and flavor, as the fresh strawberries can release moisture over time.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, preserving the integrity of the filling and crust.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, simply let slices sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of diced ones?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are perfect for this recipe and enhance the flavor wonderfully. Just be sure to dice them evenly so they incorporate throughout the cheesecake filling nicely.
What if I don’t have crushed cinnamon cereal on hand?
If you can’t find the cinnamon cereal, you can substitute with a combination of crushed cinnamon graham crackers or even cinnamon-spiced crushed cookies to maintain that warm flavor and crunchy texture layer.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure your cinnamon cereal is gluten-free too. This swap lets you enjoy the rich flavors without worry.
Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for cheesecake because it’s easier to remove the delicate dessert without damaging it. However, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, though unmolding may be trickier.
How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?
A minimum of four hours is essential for the cheesecake to set properly. If possible, chilling overnight will give the best texture and flavor melding, making it super easy to slice and so much more delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade dessert that combines comforting spices with fresh fruit, and this Strawberry Cinnamon Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dessert you’ll be excited to make time and again, not just for its incredible flavor but also how it brings warmth and joy to any table. So grab your ingredients, invite some loved ones over, and watch this cheesecake become the highlight of your day!
Print
Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A decadent strawberry cinnamon cheesecake featuring a crunchy graham cracker and cinnamon cereal crust, creamy cream cheese filling with fresh strawberries, baked to perfection and served chilled.
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 bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Add Cinnamon Cereal: Evenly sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal over the crust layer for added texture and flavor.
- Make Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully incorporated. Finally, gently fold in the diced strawberries to the mixture.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the strawberry cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust with cinnamon cereal in the springform pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges may be lightly golden.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to fully set and develop flavors.
- Serve: Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious strawberry cinnamon cheesecake!
Notes
- Make sure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Press the crust mixture firmly to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries.
- The cheesecake should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture.
- If your strawberries are very juicy, drain some of the juice before folding them into the batter to prevent sogginess.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigeration to avoid condensation inside the pan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
