Easy Cherry Cheesecake Recipe for Dessert Delight

Creating a delicious dessert that is both simple and stunning can be a joyful experience, especially with a recipe like the Easy Cherry Cheesecake. This dessert combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the vibrant, sweet-tart taste of cherries, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Here's how you can make this delightful cheesecake at home with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients for Cherry Cheesecake

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¹⁄₃ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For the Filling:
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
• For the Topping:
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Preparation Steps

Here’s how to put together your cherry cheesecake:

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven to cool slightly.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is silky smooth.
4. Pour this filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Place the pan into a larger baking dish with about 1 inch of hot water to create a water bath, which helps prevent cracking.

Baking and Cooling

1. Bake at 325°F for about 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when moved.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour to gently come to room temperature.
3. After this cooling period, remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath, run a knife around the edges to loosen, and let it cool completely at room temperature.
4. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to set properly.

Topping with Cherry Pie Filling

1. Once the cheesecake has thoroughly chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it to cover the surface evenly.
3. Serve chilled, or at room temperature if you prefer.

🍒 Note: Allowing the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator overnight greatly improves its texture, giving you that perfect, creamy bite.

To wrap up, this Easy Cherry Cheesecake recipe is a straightforward yet elegant dessert that doesn't skimp on flavor. With its simple preparation, you can easily master this recipe, making it a go-to for celebrations, gatherings, or just a special weekend treat. The combination of a buttery crust, creamy filling, and luscious cherry topping is sure to delight your taste buds and those of anyone lucky enough to share in this delicious dessert.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

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Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Simply cook them with sugar and a little cornstarch until they thicken to resemble pie filling. Allow the mixture to cool before topping your cheesecake.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

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If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular cake pan. Line it with parchment paper with an overhang to lift out the cheesecake easily once it’s set.

Can this cheesecake be frozen?

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Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen before adding the cherry topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.