Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the base: Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan). Crush the digestive biscuits inside a sealed zip-lock bag using a rolling pin until they resemble fine, sandy breadcrumbs. Pour the crumbs into a bowl and stir in the melted butter until every grain is coated and the mixture smells richly buttery.
- Press and bake: Tip the buttery crumbs into a 20cm springform tin lined with parchment. Press them firmly and evenly across the bottom using the back of a spoon, creating a compact, level layer. Bake for 10 minutes until the base is fragrant and lightly golden at the edges. Set aside to cool while you make the filling.
- Whip the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the caster sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until it's silky smooth with no lumps—about 2 minutes. You'll see the mixture become glossy and pale. Add the eggs one at a time, beating gently after each until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, double cream, and plain flour until the batter is thick, velvety, and uniform in colour.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the cooled base and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the tin gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the edges are set and the centre still has a slight wobble—like a soft jelly. The surface should be pale golden and feel firm to a light touch.
- Cool slowly: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 30 minutes. This gentle cooling prevents cracks. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. The cheesecake will shrink slightly from the sides of the tin, and the top will feel smooth and set.
- Make the strawberry glaze: While the cheesecake cools, combine the frozen strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the berries break down and the mixture is bubbling and deep red—about 8 minutes. Stir in the cornflour slurry and cook for 1 more minute until the glaze thickens to a pourable consistency and coats the back of a spoon.
- Chill and serve: Pour the warm glaze over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly to the edges. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the cheesecake is completely firm and the glaze is set into a glossy, jewel-like layer. Slice with a warm, dry knife for clean cuts.
Notes
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. The cheesecake must chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.
