Cherry Cheesecake masterfully marries the creamy indulgence of a classic cheesecake with the sweet, tangy burst of a cherry pie. With its velvety filling layered on a crunchy graham cracker crust, this dessert not only pleases the eye but also promises a delightful explosion of flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or indulging in a personal treat, this recipe offers gourmet flair with minimal fuss.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 (14-ounce) can
Provides a lush, velvety base with an enticing sweetness. - Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce) package, softened
Ensures a smooth, rich texture that creates the heart of the cheesecake. - Lemon Juice: 1/3 cup
Introduces a lively tang that balances the creaminess and adds brightness. - Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Contributes a warm, aromatic depth that rounds out the flavor profile. - Graham Cracker Crust: 1 (9-inch) prepared crust
Serves as a crunchy, buttery foundation that contrasts perfectly with the creamy topping. - Cherry Pie Filling: 1 (21-ounce) can
Toppers the dessert with a vibrant and fruity layer, delivering both color and sweet tartness.
Directions
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture thoroughly until it achieves a uniformly smooth and creamy consistency. - Assemble the Base:
Pour the creamy mixture into the 9-inch graham cracker crust, ensuring an even, level layer that will serve as the Cherry cheesecake’s foundation. - Chill to Set:
Place the assembled Cherry cheesecake into the refrigerator and chill for approximately 5 hours. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up to a perfect, sliceable texture. - Top with Cherry Pie Filling:
Once the Cherry cheesecake has set, gently spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top. The glossy, ruby-red topping not only offers a delicious burst of flavor but also delivers a stunning visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming the cheesecake is divided into 12 equal slices):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 34mg |
| Sodium | 198mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 49g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 28g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin C | 4mg |
| Calcium | 155mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 267mg |
Why This Recipe Shines
This Cherry Cheesecake is a triumph in simplicity and flavor balance:
- Creamy and Tangy: The combination of cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice creates a rich, tangy base that is both smooth and luxuriously creamy.
- Crisp and Buttery Crust: The graham cracker crust provides a pleasant textural contrast that anchors the dessert, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
- Vibrant Topping: The cherry pie filling crowns the Cherry cheesecake with a burst of color and fruit flavor, enhancing its visual and gustatory appeal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Presentation Perfection: Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the dessert’s presentation.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try substituting the cherry pie filling for a blueberry or raspberry compote to transform the dessert’s flavor profile.
- Lighter Version: For those looking for healthier variations, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a sugar-free condensed milk substitute while keeping the delightful flavor intact.
Conclusion
Cherry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert it’s a canvas for creativity and culinary delight. With only about 5 minutes of active preparation and a few hours of patient chilling, you can craft a dessert that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your own flavor twists, this dessert is sure to be a hit.
What other dessert innovations are you thinking about exploring next? Enjoy the journey into the sweet and creative world of dessert making, and happy cooking!
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