In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and ½ cup of sugar. Toss together and let them sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the strawberries to macerate and their juices to release.
Using a fork, mash half of the macerated strawberries to create a chunky sauce, leaving the rest intact for texture. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, adding the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This will create a light and fluffy cheesecake base.
Gently fold in the mashed strawberry sauce along with the intact strawberry pieces to incorporate them into the mixture.
In a suitable container for freezing, add half of the cream cheese and strawberry mixture, then sprinkle half of the graham cracker crumbs on top.
Add the remaining cheesecake mixture, finishing with the rest of the graham cracker crumbs scattered on top.
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
Once frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls and enjoy!
Notes
Serve in waffle cones or bowls, garnished with fresh strawberry slices and graham cracker crumbs.