Name: Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup sugar; 24 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tsp orange zest; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup orange juice; 1 tsp orange zest

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Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the vibrant flavors of cranberry and orange. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, making it an excellent choice for any gathering or celebration. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, with a lovely red topping that adds a festive touch.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup melted butter
1/4 cup sugar
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tsp orange zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup orange juice
1 tsp orange zest

Directions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
Make the Cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Make the Cranberry Topping: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Let it cool.
Cool and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, spread the cranberry topping over the cheesecake.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake can be served straight from the fridge. It’s best to slice it with a sharp knife, and you can garnish each slice with a little bit of extra orange zest or fresh cranberries for added flair. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy treat!

How to Store Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It can last for up to a week in the fridge. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for a smoother batter.
For a sweeter topping, add more sugar to the cranberry mixture if desired.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the topping to prevent it from melting.
Using fresh cranberries will give a bright flavor, while frozen cranberries can work in a pinch.

Variation

You can add a layer of chocolate or add nuts to the crust for a different texture. Some like to include a hint of cinnamon in the cheesecake mixture for added warmth.