Name: Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Recipe That’s Surprisingly Easy to Make
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: PT-484225H29M25S
Total time: PT-484225H29M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Crust: Graham crackers: 2 cups, finely crushed; Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons, melted; Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup; Salt: Pinch (optional); Filling: Cream cheese: 24 ounces (three 8-ounce blocks), softened; Granulated sugar: 1 cup; Sour cream: 1 cup; Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons; Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature; Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon (optional); Topping: Fresh cherries: 2 cups, pitted and halved; Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup; Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon; Water: 1/4 cup; Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon; Optional: Almond extract, canned cherry pie filling, spices, liqueurs, mixed berries

Description

A guide to making an easy cherry cheesecake recipe from scratch, featuring a buttery crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping. This classic dessert is perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat anytime.

Ingredients

- Crust:
  - Graham crackers: 2 cups, finely crushed
  - Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons, melted
  - Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
  - Salt: Pinch (optional)
- Filling:
  - Cream cheese: 24 ounces (three 8-ounce blocks), softened
  - Granulated sugar: 1 cup
  - Sour cream: 1 cup
  - Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
  - Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature
  - Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Topping:
  - Fresh cherries: 2 cups, pitted and halved
  - Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
  - Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
  - Water: 1/4 cup
  - Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
  - Optional: Almond extract, canned cherry pie filling, spices, liqueurs, mixed berries

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers, mix with sugar, salt (optional), and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
2. Make the Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and sour cream, then vanilla. Incorporate eggs one at a time. Add lemon zest (optional). Pour into crust.
3. Prepare Cherry Topping: Simmer cherries, sugar, and water. Thicken with cornstarch slurry. Add lemon juice, almond extract (optional). Let cool. Or use canned cherry pie filling with optional lemon juice or almond extract.
4. Bake: Wrap the springform pan in foil. Place in a roasting pan with a water bath. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-65 minutes.
5. Cool: Turn off the oven, crack the door. Cool for 1 hour in the oven, then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight.
6. Serve: Remove from the pan, spread cherry topping, garnish with whipped cream and desired toppings. Serve chilled.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cherry cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, homemade dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, cherry topping, baking recipe, easy cheesecake, dessert recipe, water bath, springform pan, classic cheesecake