If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Easy To Make Cheesecake with Classic Cherry Topping is just the ticket! I remember one summer when my daughter, Lily, decided to take charge of dessert for our family barbecue. She whipped up a cheesecake that had everyone asking for seconds, and now it’s a staple in our home. This Easy Bake Cheesecake is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests.
- The creamy filling paired with the sweet cherry topping is a classic combo.
- You can make it ahead of time, saving you stress on the big day.
- It’s versatile; you can switch up the toppings based on your mood!
Pure Comfort
Cheesecake has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a Tuesday night, this Easy To Make Cheesecake creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The creamy texture and sweet cherry topping remind me of family celebrations, laughter, and love. It’s pure comfort on a plate!
What You Need
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – You can use digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Brown sugar can add a richer taste.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened – Neufchâtel cheese works well for a lighter version.
- 1 cup sour cream – Greek yogurt is a good substitute.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Almond extract can add a nice twist.
- 3 large eggs – Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – Fresh cherries or other fruit toppings work too.
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 50 minutes | Total: 1 hour 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. The warmth will help create that perfect baked cheesecake texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until it resembles wet sand, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. The texture should be creamy and free of lumps, which will create a velvety filling.
- Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and sugar to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each addition.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, and bake for 50 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour. This helps prevent cracks as it cools.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Once chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top. The vibrant color and sweet aroma will make your mouth water!
- Slice and serve! Enjoy this Easy To Make Cheesecake with your family and friends.
Make It Perfect
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix the eggs; this can introduce too much air and cause cracks.
- Use a water bath while baking for an extra creamy texture.
- Let your cheesecake cool slowly to avoid cracks.
- Top with fresh whipped cream for an extra special touch!
Mix It Up
- Try a chocolate ganache topping for a rich twist.
- Add lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Swap the cherry topping for strawberries or blueberries for a summer vibe.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Enjoy alongside fresh fruit for a balanced dessert.
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FAQs
How do I store leftover cheesecake?
Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze cheesecake?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Use ricotta or mascarpone for a different flavor.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Bake at a lower temperature and avoid overmixing.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Conclusion
This Easy To Make Cheesecake with Classic Cherry Topping is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. With its creamy texture and delightful cherry topping, it’s a dessert that brings smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious cheesecake recipe!
Easy To Make Cheesecake with Classic Cherry Topping
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
- Springform pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
Main
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs You can use digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar Brown sugar can add a richer taste.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened Neufchâtel cheese works well for a lighter version.
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt is a good substitute.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Almond extract can add a nice twist.
- 3 large eggs Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling Fresh cherries or other fruit toppings work too.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F to create the perfect baked cheesecake texture.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl until mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and let it cool.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and sugar to the cream cheese and mix well.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each addition.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50 minutes until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside for one hour.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Slice and serve with family and friends.