2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

• While the crust is cooling, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Make sure there are no lumps.
• Add the sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the cream cheese. Beat on low speed until combined and smooth.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low after each addition. Be careful not to overmix. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
• Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Bake the cheesecake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
• Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
• After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the countertop or a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps it set and enhances the flavors.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

• While the cheesecake is chilling, make the strawberry topping. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture comes to a simmer.
• If you’d like a thicker topping, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to make a slurry, and then add it to the strawberry mixture. Stir until thickened (this usually takes 1-2 minutes).
• Once the topping has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. The strawberry topping should be at room temperature when it’s added to the cheesecake.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan. You can use an offset spatula to gently loosen the edges before removing the sides of the pan.
• Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake, allowing the syrup to drip slightly over the edges.
• Garnish the cheesecake with additional fresh strawberry slices for a beautiful and fresh touch.
• For extra indulgence, you can also serve the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream.