Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

• Table of Contents

  • Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
  • Time
  • Ingredients
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Cooking Tips
  • Variations
  • Nutrition per Serving
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Conclusion

Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

Cherry cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tart sweetness of cherries. This classic dessert has its roots in ancient Greece, where cheesecake was made with simple ingredients like cheese, honey, and flour. Over the centuries, it has evolved into various forms, with the American version becoming particularly popular in the 20th century. The addition of fruit toppings, especially cherries, has made it a favorite for many. This article will guide you through a comprehensive cherry cheesecake recipe, ensuring you can create this delicious treat in your own kitchen.

Time

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Ingredients

To make a classic cherry cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
• For the cheesecake filling:
  • 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• For the cherry topping:
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your cherry cheesecake:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
   • Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Make the cheesecake filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.
   • Mix in the sour cream and flour until smooth.
5. Pour the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the cheesecake: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.
8. Chill the cheesecake: After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
9. Prepare the cherry topping: In a small bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with lemon juice. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Cooking Tips

Here are some expert tips to ensure your cherry cheesecake turns out perfectly:

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Don’t overmix: When adding eggs, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Water bath method: For a creamier texture and to prevent cracking, consider baking your cheesecake in a water bath. Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water.
• Chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.

Variations

Feel free to customize your cherry cheesecake with these variations:

• Different fruit toppings: Substitute cherry pie filling with other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a different flavor.
• Chocolate cherry cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust.
• Vegan option: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs.

Nutrition per Serving

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 12 servings):

• kcal: 320
• fat: 22g
• saturates: 12g
• carbs: 28g
• sugars: 18g
• fibre: 1g
• protein: 5g
• salt: 0.5g

Serving Suggestions

To present your cherry cheesecake beautifully, consider the following serving suggestions:

• Garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Accompany with a glass of dessert wine or coffee to enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Cherry cheesecake is a timeless dessert that brings together the creamy texture of cheesecake and the sweet-tart flavor of cherries. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. By following this comprehensive recipe and incorporating the tips and variations provided, you can create a stunning cherry cheesecake that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy the process of making this delightful dessert, and savor every bite of your homemade cherry cheesecake!