Creating your own Strawberry Cheesecake is simple if you follow these steps carefully:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool.
4. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
5. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, beating until fully combined.
6. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended. Avoid overmixing.
7. Add Sour Cream: Fold in sour cream gently to retain its texture, ensuring a smooth mixture.
8. Combine: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
10. Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another 1-2 hours to cool gradually.
11. Refrigerate: Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture.
12. Prepare Topping: In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until syrupy. If desired, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and add to thicken the sauce.
13. Chill Topping: Allow the strawberry topping to cool before placing it on top of the cheesecake.
14. Serve: Remove the springform pan sides carefully and slice the cheesecake. Top with fresh strawberry sauce just before serving.