Description
Indulgent summer berry cheesecake brings Italian creamy richness with bright seasonal berries dancing across silky cream cheese layers. Sweet-tart fruits and smooth texture create a luxurious dessert you’ll crave all season long.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 24 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Berries:
- 2 cups mixed summer berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by thoroughly coating the bottom and sides with melted butter.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s base to create a compact crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Integrate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then gently fold in vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake’s center is slightly jiggly but set, then remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- While cooling, prepare the berry compote by combining mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan, simmering over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy topping.
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Before serving, spread the berry compote evenly over the cheesecake’s surface, then pipe or dollop whipped cream around the edges.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and additional berries for an elegant presentation.
- Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and vibrant summer berry flavors.
Notes
- Prevent Crust Crumbling by pressing graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring a solid base that holds together when sliced.
- Achieve Smooth Cream Cheese Mixture by bringing ingredients to room temperature before mixing, which helps eliminate lumps and creates a silky texture.
- Avoid Cheesecake Cracking by placing a pan of water on the bottom rack during baking, creating a humid environment that prevents surface splitting.
- Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, maintaining the same delicious crust texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 36 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg