Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
This cherry cheesecake recipe combines a creamy, velvety cheesecake with a deliciously tangy cherry topping. With a graham cracker crust and a smooth filling, it's perfect for any celebration or sweet treat. Whether you bake or go no-bake, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that's easy to make and always impresses!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and up the sides slightly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and continue mixing until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely before adding the cherry topping.
Add the Cherry Topping
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top. For a fresh twist, you can also use fresh cherries.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh cherries if desired.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is soft and at room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling.
- Don’t overbake: The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools, so remove it from the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Chill time: Give your cheesecake enough time to chill in the fridge—it’ll help the flavors meld and make slicing easier.