Making Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
2. Prepare Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
5. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Add Flour: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
7. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
8. Bake: Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
9. Cool: Once done, turn off the oven and slightly crack the oven door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
10. Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
11. Prepare Topping: Just before serving, toss the sliced strawberries with the optional strawberry jam for extra shine and sweetness if desired.
12. Serve: Release the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with the glazed strawberries right before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll create a Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake that is both delicious and visually stunning.