Follow these steps to create the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Make Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed, then press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.

3. Bake Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.

4. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and remaining ¼ cup sugar until smooth.

5. Add Sour Cream: Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.

6. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

7. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

8. Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the oven for about 55-60 minutes. The center should be set but slightly jiggly.

9. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

10. Prepare Topping: Just before serving, top the cheesecake with fresh strawberry slices and drizzle the optional strawberry sauce over the top.