1. Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine the ground pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter in a medium bowl.

Mix until well combined.

Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 10-inch springform pan.

2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.

Beat in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.

Add the lightly beaten eggs.

Beat on low speed just until blended. Be careful not to overbeat the filling, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.

Spoon the filling over the crust.

3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until the filling is almost set, 45-50 minutes. The center should still be slightly jiggly.

4. Cool and Prepare Topping:

Cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, for the topping, combine the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.

Mix until well combined.

5. Add Topping and Bake Again: Spread the sour cream topping evenly over the cheesecake.

Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for 5 minutes more.

6. Cool and Chill:

Cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 1 hour.

Refrigerate overnight, covering when completely cooled. Chilling the cheesecake overnight allows it to set completely and develop its full flavor.

7. Make the Strawberry Glaze: Several hours before serving, prepare the glaze.

In a saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water until smooth.

Add the strawberry jelly.

Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the jelly is melted and the mixture has thickened.

Remove from the heat.

Stir in the orange-flavored liqueur (or lemon juice) and, if desired, red food coloring.

Cool the glaze to room temperature.

8. Assemble and Serve:

Just before serving, loosen and remove the sides of the springform pan.

Arrange the halved fresh strawberries on top of the cheesecake.

Spoon the cooled glaze over the strawberries, allowing some to drip down the sides of the cake.

Serve immediately and enjoy your beautiful and delicious Strawberry Cheesecake!