Cranberry Cheesecake: A Creamy and Festive Delight

Cranberry Cheesecake: A Creamy and Festive Delight

Introduction

Indulge in the perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, tangy cranberries, and a buttery crust with this Cranberry Cheesecake recipe. This dessert is a showstopper, blending the rich smoothness of classic cheesecake with the tart, fruity burst of cranberries. Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. With a crunchy crust, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a luscious cranberry topping, every bite is pure bliss!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Cranberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp orange zest

For the Whipped Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
   • Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and cornstarch, ensuring a lump-free batter.
   • Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

   • Place the pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish to create a water bath (this prevents cracks).
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

4. Prepare the Cranberry Topping:

   ADVERTISEMENT

   • In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and form a thick sauce (about 10 minutes).
   • Let the mixture cool, then spread it over the cooled cheesecake.

5. Whipped Cream Topping:

   • Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Pipe or spread over the cheesecake and top with fresh cranberries for a festive touch.

6. Chill & Serve:

   • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
   • Slice and enjoy your creamy, tangy, and decadent dessert!

Conclusion

This Cranberry Cheesecake is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors, making it an unforgettable treat. The rich, velvety cheesecake pairs beautifully with the vibrant cranberry topping, creating a dessert that’s as delicious as it is stunning. Whether for a holiday table or a weekend indulgence, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress! 🍰✨