1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.

• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.

• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

• Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

• Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

• Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggles when you shake the pan.

• Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

• After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

• In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the sugar and lemon juice (optional). Stir and let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and become slightly syrupy.

• You can also refrigerate the strawberry mixture until ready to serve for a chilled topping.

5. Make the Whipped Cream:

• In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.

• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

6. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.

• Pipe or spread the whipped cream on top of the strawberries to create a beautiful finish.

7. Serve:

• Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.

• Slice and serve with extra strawberries and whipped cream, if desired.