Description
This Decadent Vanilla Berry Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling and a vibrant berry topping made from fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and a glossy berry preserves glaze. Perfectly baked to a silky texture and chilled to set, this dessert is a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
Topping
- 1 cup strawberries, halved
- ¾ cup blueberries
- ¾ cup raspberries
- ½ cup berry preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or mixed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix with a fork until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the bottom of a lined 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes until set and golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each. Blend in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until silky smooth with no lumps.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven at 325°F for 40–45 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles when shaken. Turn off oven, crack door open, and cool cheesecake inside for about 1 hour.
- Chill the cheesecake: Transfer cheesecake to refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare berry topping and serve: Gently heat berry preserves and lemon juice over low heat until smooth. Cool slightly, then spoon over chilled cheesecake. Decorate with fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and optional powdered sugar and mint leaves. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Do not overmix once eggs are added to prevent a dense cheesecake.
- Allow cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Chilling overnight yields the best texture and flavor.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Fresh mint leaves add a lovely fresh garnish but are optional.
