Dreamy Cherry Cheesecake Recipe: A Sweet Slice of Heaven

Sweet dreams come true with this delectable cherry cheesecake that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy textures melt seamlessly across each luxurious slice.

Soft cream cheese blends perfectly with tangy cherries for an unforgettable dessert experience.

Bakers who love classic comfort treats will adore this simple yet elegant recipe.

Every bite brings memories of cozy kitchen moments and shared celebrations.

Delicate graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch against smooth, rich filling.

You’ll want to savor each incredible forkful of this irresistible cheesecake sensation.

What Makes Cherry Cheesecake So Good

• Create Creamy Comfort: This classic cheesecake delivers rich, velvety texture that melts in your mouth with every single bite.
• Master Beginner-Friendly Baking: No advanced pastry skills needed – the recipe walks you through simple steps anyone can follow with confidence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert Magic: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or special celebrations where you want to impress without complicated techniques.
• Versatile Sweet Sensation: Customize with different fruit toppings or enjoy classic cherry style, making it adaptable for multiple tastes and preferences.

Cherry Cheesecake Ingredients List

• Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet, crumbly foundation for the cheesecake.
• Butter: Helps bind the cracker crumbs and creates a rich, cohesive crust.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its signature creamy and tangy flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the tanginess.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help create a smooth, custard-like texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
• Sour Cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a subtle tangy note.

• Cherries, Sugar, Cornstarch, Water, Lemon Juice: Work together to create a glossy, sweet-tart cherry sauce that adds vibrant flavor and color to the cheesecake.

How To Bake Cherry Cheesecake

Step 1: Create Crunchy Crust Base

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Melt butter and mix with crumbs and sugar until the mixture feels like damp beach sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan, creating a smooth, compact foundation using the back of a spoon.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until silky smooth with zero lumps. Gradually blend sugar into the cream cheese, transforming the mixture into a light, airy texture. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a luxurious consistency. Gently incorporate vanilla extract and sour cream, stirring until the filling becomes perfectly uniform.

Step 3: Bake The Cheesecake

Pour the creamy filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Slide the pan into a preheated oven at 325°F. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly wobbly when gently shaken.

Step 4: Cool And Rest

Remove the cheesecake from the oven. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to help it set perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare Luscious Cherry Topping

• Fresh cherries
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Lemon juice

Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce transforms into a glossy, thick consistency (about 5-7 minutes). Let the topping cool to room temperature.

Step 6: Finish And Serve

Spread the cooled cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for an additional hour to set the topping. Slice and serve this decadent dessert to eager guests.

Tips For Better Cherry Cheesecake

• Prevent Cheesecake Cracks: Beat cream cheese at room temperature and mix ingredients gently to avoid overbeating, which can cause unsightly surface splits.
• Master the Baking Technique: Watch for a slight jiggle in the center when removing from oven – this indicates a perfectly cooked, creamy texture that will set beautifully.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a splash of almond extract to the cherry topping for a subtle, sophisticated twist that complements the rich cheesecake.

Different Takes On Cherry Cheesecake

• Chocolate Marble Cheesecake: Swirl melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter before baking, creating beautiful chocolate ribbons throughout the creamy filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace graham cracker crust with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy the dessert.
• No-Bake Berry Cheesecake: Skip the oven entirely by using gelatin to set the cream cheese mixture, topping with fresh mixed berries instead of cherry sauce.
• Vegan Coconut Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream, and replace eggs with silken tofu for a plant-based version.

Perfect Matches For Cherry Cheesecake

• Enhance Sweetness with Port Wine: Pair this rich cherry cheesecake with a smooth, slightly sweet port wine that complements the dessert's creamy texture and fruity cherry notes.
• Elevate with Champagne: Select a light, crisp champagne or sparkling wine to cut through the cheesecake's richness and provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet cherry topping.
• Create Contrast with Black Coffee: Serve a bold, dark roast coffee alongside the cheesecake to balance its sweetness and provide a robust flavor counterpoint that cleanses the palate.
• Boost Flavor with Almond Liqueur: Drizzle a small amount of amaretto or almond liqueur over the cheesecake to enhance the cherry flavor and add a subtle nutty undertone.

How To Store Cherry Cheesecake Correctly

• Store cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, where it can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Remove cheesecake from the freezer and let it defrost slowly in the refrigerator overnight, ensuring it maintains its texture and flavor integrity.
• Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power, or let the slice sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften before serving.

FAQs For Cherry Cheesecake

• Can I use a different type of fruit for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Simply follow the same cooking method for the sauce.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To avoid cracks, don’t overmix the batter, bake at a lower temperature, and use a water bath. Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking.

• What if I don't have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan.

Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Rich, creamy Cherry Cheesecake brings classic dessert magic to your table with a buttery graham cracker crust and luscious cherry topping. Sweet indulgence awaits with each silky, tangy bite that promises pure dessert bliss.

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Ingredients

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Crust:

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Cherry Topping:

• 3 cups fresh cherries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing the sides.
2. Pulverize graham crackers into fine crumbs, then blend with melted butter and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even, compact layer using the back of a spoon or measuring cup.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
5. Gradually incorporate sugar into the cream cheese, mixing until fully integrated and the texture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a silky consistency.
7. Gently fold in vanilla extract and sour cream, stirring until the filling is completely uniform.
8. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
10. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
11. For the cherry topping, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.
12. Simmer the mixture, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 5-7 minutes.
13. Let the cherry topping cool to room temperature before spreading over the chilled cheesecake.
14. Refrigerate the completed cheesecake for an additional hour to set the topping before serving.

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter that blends perfectly.
• Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking, creating a perfectly moist cheesecake.
• Crack the oven door slightly after baking to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking on the surface.
• Substitute fresh cherries with frozen or canned options during off-season, maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 31 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg