How to Make a Strawberry Jam Cheesecake with a Buttery Crust

After a long month of Ramzan fasting, Eid-ul-Fitr is the much-awaited festival for Muslim families. The day begins with bright sunshine and brings in the festive atmosphere of joy, traditions, and togetherness. After the morning prayer and warm hugs, food is something everyone looks forward to. While homemade sweet delicacies like sheer khurma, seviyan, kheer, and many other sweets take the limelight, one can always think to bring some oomph to the festive table. If you wish to serve something fresh yet decadent, no-bake Strawberry Jam Cheesecake with a Buttery Crust is something that will make your guests fall in love with every bite.

No-bake cheesecake is a quick recipe that will not keep you busy in the kitchen, yet serve you a delightful dessert. With a few simple ingredients, you can make something that leaves guests wanting more with every bite. To get you started with this festive dessert, we have a simple recipe to try at home. Bring your aprons and begin mixing!

Recipe for Homemade Strawberry Jam

Ingredients:

• 500g fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method:

Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally. Mash the strawberries as they soften, allowing the jam to thicken (about 15-20 minutes). Once it reaches a jam-like consistency, remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Recipe for Strawberry Jam Cheesecake with a Buttery Crust

Ingredients:

• 200g digestive biscuits (crushed)
• 100g unsalted butter (melted)
• 500g cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup homemade strawberry jam

Method:

1. Mix crushed biscuits with melted butter until combined. Press this mixture into the base of a springform pan, creating an even layer. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add heavy cream and beat until the mixture is fluffy and holds its shape.
3. Now, spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust. Top it generously with homemade strawberry jam. Let it set in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Garnish with fresh strawberries before serving. Enjoy!

7 Tips to Make the Perfect Strawberry Jam Cheesecake with a Buttery Crust

Use High-Quality Ingredients

The secret to a perfectly baked cheesecake truly stands out in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, ripe strawberries for the jam, rich cream cheese, and good-quality butter all contribute to the taste. Avoid low-fat substitutes, as they might affect the consistency and overall richness of the dessert.

Adjust the Sweetness

Balance is everything when it comes to desserts. If your strawberries are particularly sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the jam. For the cheesecake filling, taste as you go to ensure the sweetness complements the tangy cream cheese without overpowering it.

How to Achieve the Perfect Crust

The crust is more than just a base—it’s the crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. Make sure to press down the biscuit mixture firmly to avoid a crumbly mess. Chilling the crust properly before adding the filling ensures it holds together when sliced.

Right Equipment Matters

Not just ingredients, right equipment matters a lot for good results. Using a springform pan is essential for a no-bake cheesecake. It allows you to release the cheesecake easily without damaging the sides. Also, an electric mixer can help achieve a smooth and airy filling, giving your cheesecake a light yet creamy finish.

Garnishing for Extra Appeal

A little garnish goes a long way. Fresh strawberries, a drizzle of extra jam, or even some mint leaves can add a beautiful touch. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also brings a fresh and vibrant taste to every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesecake chilled, straight from the fridge. For a festive touch, pair it with a refreshing fruit punch or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert is perfect as a light and refreshing end to a hearty Eid meal.

Storing Leftovers

It is rare to have any cake left, still if you happen to have any leftovers, store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for a quick and satisfying treat whenever the craving hits.