Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Cherry Cheesecake is a classic and decadent dessert that combines the richness of creamy cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavor of cherries. Here's a delicious recipe for you to try:
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Cherry Topping:
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar, beating until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the cheesecake filling is smooth and velvety.
3. Baking the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential leaks.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack open the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preparing the Cherry Topping:
In a saucepan, combine the halved cherries, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and the cherries are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove the cherry topping from the heat and let it cool completely.
5. Adding the Cherry Topping:
Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
Spoon the cooled cherry topping over the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
6. Serving the Cherry Cheesecake:
Slice the cherry cheesecake into portions and serve chilled.
You can garnish each slice with additional fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Enjoy this delightful Cherry Cheesecake with its creamy texture and luscious cherry topping—a perfect treat for any occasion or celebration!