A Summer Berry Cheesecake is a refreshing and vibrant dessert filled with the sweet and tart flavors of fresh berries. Here’s how to make this delicious treat:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (60 g) melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
For the Berry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (225 g) mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
For Garnish (Optional):
- Extra fresh berries
- Mint leaves
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
4. Prepare the Berry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to break down and release their juices (about 5 minutes).
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then add it to the berry mixture.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the berry sauce cool completely.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the cooled berry sauce over the top.
- Garnish with extra fresh berries, mint leaves, and whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and serve!
This Summer Berry Cheesecake is bursting with fresh flavors, making it a perfect dessert for warm weather. The sweet-tart berry topping adds the ideal contrast to the creamy cheesecake base, creating a stunning and delicious treat!