step one, Release lemon oils

1. Begin by mixing sugar and lemon zest for your cookie dough base. Rub the lemon zest into the sugar to release its oils and enhance the flavor.

step two, prepare the cookie dough crust

1. Add flour, egg, baking powder and add the brown butter last to avoid splitting the dough. The brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that will elevate the crust and complement the creamy strawberry cheesecake.

step three, Preheat the oven

1. Once combined, press the dough evenly into the bottom of your cheesecake pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan with the cookie dough base into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This step gives the crust a golden, firm texture that will hold the creamy filling of your strawberry cheesecake. After 10 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and allow the crust to cool slightly.

step four, prepare the cornstarch mixture for the cheesecake

1. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and 80 grams of heavy cream to create a smooth slurry. This helps avoid cornstarch lumps in the filling

step five, prepare the cheesecake filling

1. Add the Greek yogurt, and condensed milk to the bowl. Mix until fully incorporated. The Greek yogurt adds a tangy richness to the cheesecake, while the condensed milk provides sweetness.

step six, mix cream cheese, eggs and sugar

1. In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs. The eggs help bind the ingredients together, giving the strawberry cheesecake its creamy, smooth texture. Add sugar and continue beating for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.

step seven, Combine the Cheesecake Mixture with the Cornstarch Slurry

1. Gradually add the cornstarch and cream mixture to the cream cheese and egg mixture. Stir gently to combine, making sure everything is fully incorporated. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter for your strawberry cheesecake with strawberries. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the slightly cooled cookie dough base.

step eight, bake the cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake into the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour at 175 ºC (350ºF). Once it’s done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 10 minutes to set without cracking. The gradual cooling helps prevent the cheesecake from experiencing sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracking. After 10 minutes, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

step nine, Chill the cheesecake

1. Once the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. Decorate with strawberry jam and strawberries.