Strawberry Cheesecake (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs.
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted.
04 - 2 (8 oz) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened.
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar.
06 - 1/2 cup sour cream.
07 - 2 large eggs.
08 - 1 tsp vanilla extract.
09 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped.
10 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
11 - 1 tbsp lemon juice.
12 - 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
02 - For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press into the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
03 - For the cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add eggs one at a time.
04 - Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours.
05 - For the strawberry topping: Combine chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook until boiling, then add the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Let cool.
06 - Spread cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake. Lift using the parchment, cut into bars, and serve.

Notes:

01 - Serve the cheesecake bars chilled.
02 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.