If you’re a dessert lover like me, then you know there’s something magical about a slice of cherry cheesecake. This cherry cheesecake recipe is a luscious blend of rich cream cheese and sweet cherry glaze, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust that’s simply to die for! I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe in my cozy kitchen, and trust me, each bite is a heavenly experience. The creamy texture paired with the tart cherries creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delectable cherry cheesecake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (fine for a smooth crust)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (to bind the crumbs)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely aromatic flavor)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature, helps with blending)
- 1 cup sour cream (adds creaminess and a slight tang)
- 1 can cherry pie filling (for the luscious topping)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dessert that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare the Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get down to the delicious business of making this cherry cheesecake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be well on your way to dessert bliss.
Preparing the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. This mixture should resemble wet sand. Now, here’s the fun part—press this into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to pack it down firmly. You want a solid base that won’t crumble when you cut into that creamy cheesecake later!
Making the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is key for that luscious texture! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t rush this part; the smoother, the better! Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is beautifully blended. If you see any lumps, just keep mixing until it’s silky smooth—trust me, the texture makes all the difference!
Baking and Cooling
Pour the cream cheese filling over your crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. This is important, as overbaking can lead to cracks. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour before transferring it to the refrigerator. This chilling process is crucial—at least 4 hours—so the flavors meld and the cheesecake firms up beautifully!
Tips for Success
To elevate your cherry cheesecake to restaurant-quality, here are some of my top tips. First, use high-quality cream cheese—this really impacts the flavor and texture, so don’t skimp here! When mixing, beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth before adding sugar; this helps avoid lumps. Also, remember to add your eggs one at a time, mixing gently to maintain that airy texture. A common pitfall is overbaking, which can lead to cracks, so keep an eye on it in the oven. Lastly, patience is key—let it chill in the fridge for that perfect slice every time!
Variations of the Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
The beauty of this cherry cheesecake recipe is its versatility! If you’re looking to mix things up, consider swapping out the graham cracker crust for a chocolate wafer cookie crust for a rich, chocolatey twist. You could also play around with the toppings—fresh blueberries or strawberries add a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake! Feeling adventurous? Try adding a swirl of raspberry sauce or a hint of lemon zest in the filling for a refreshing zing. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect flavor combination!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your cherry cheesecake, a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience even more! I love to enjoy a slice with a cup of rich coffee or a glass of dessert wine, like a sweet Riesling, which complements the cheesecake’s flavors beautifully. For presentation, consider drizzling a little extra cherry sauce on the plate and adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprig of fresh mint can add a pop of color, making your dessert not just delicious but visually stunning too!
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. For a standard serving of this cherry cheesecake, you can expect about 350 calories, 23g of fat, 5g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Enjoy every indulgent bite!
FAQ Section
I’ve gathered some common questions you might have about this cherry cheesecake recipe, so let’s dive in!
Can I substitute the sour cream? Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creaminess.
How should I store leftovers? Keep any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, it also freezes beautifully!
What’s the best way to serve this cheesecake? I recommend slicing it into 12 pieces for a perfect serving size. This way, everyone gets a taste of that creamy goodness!
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned? Yes, fresh cherries are a fantastic option! Just pit and slice them, and they’ll add a lovely, natural sweetness!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this cherry cheesecake recipe! It’s truly a crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love the creamy texture and the burst of sweet cherry flavor. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with different toppings or variations. I’d love to hear about your baking adventures, so please share your experiences in the comments! Whether you nailed it on the first try or had a few hiccups, your feedback is what makes this community so special. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious slice!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of cherries, check out this Healthline article.
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Recipe: 7 Steps to Sweet Success
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy cherry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a sweet cherry glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Top with cherry pie filling before serving.
Notes
- For a chocolate crust, substitute graham cracker crumbs with chocolate wafer cookies.
- Use fresh cherries for a more authentic flavor.
- Experiment with different fruit toppings like blueberries or strawberries.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cherry cheesecake recipe
