#2620 - Strawberry Preserves Cheesecake

(by Shirley McNevich)

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 TBSP white sugar
3 TBSP butter (melted)
3 - 8oz. Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
3/4 cup white sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup strawberry preserves

In a bowl add graham cracker crumbs, 3 TBSP white sugar and melted butter--stir until mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9" springform cheesecake pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes. In a mixer add cream cheese--beat. Add 3/4 cup white sugar and eggs--beat. Add vanilla--beat. Pour batter into baked crust. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes, then without opening the oven door reduce heat to 250 degrees. Bake at 250 degrees for 30 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool completely, then refrigerate until cold. Spread strawberry preserves over the top before serving.