Hey there, fellow dessert lover! If you’re anything like me, you understand the joy that comes from whipping up something sweet and satisfying in the kitchen. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that is close to my heart, Cranberry Orange Cheesecake. This beautiful dessert brings together the tangy flavor of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrusy zing of oranges, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling. Imagine it chilling in your fridge, waiting to be served after dinner, making your evenings just a little bit brighter. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to gather friends and family around the table, share stories, and indulge in sweet, tasty bites. So, grab your apron and let’s create a treat that not only tantalizes taste buds but also fills the kitchen with warmth and love.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up a Cranberry Orange Cheesecake, but let’s chat about a few that really stand out. First off, it’s a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. While traditional cheesecakes are delicious in their own right, adding cranberries and oranges elevates it to a whole new level. The tartness of the cranberries balances out the richness of the cream cheese, and the orange juice and zest brighten the flavor perfectly.
Next, this cheesecake is visually stunning! The pop of red from the cranberries against the creamy white filling and the golden crust is just so pretty! It’s a showstopper for any gathering, a dessert that begs to be showcased on your table. Plus, it’s relatively simple to throw together, even for novice bakers. With just a bit of patience, you’ll have an impressive dessert that will have your friends and family raving.
Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or just to enjoy during the cozy winter months, this cheesecake captures the essence of seasonal ingredients beautifully. Now that we’re all inspired, let’s delve into how to make your very own Cranberry Orange Cheesecake!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
Creating your own Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a delightful journey. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of one orange
Directions
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is key to making sure your cheesecake bakes evenly.
Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. A flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup can be helpful here to ensure an even layer!
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This could take a couple of minutes, so don’t rush it, nobody likes lumps in their cheesecake!
Add the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. It’s important to mix thoroughly so that the eggs emulsify properly into the mixture.
Stir in the deliciousness: Now, gently fold in the sour cream, fresh cranberries, orange juice, and the orange zest until everything is nicely combined. The batter should be a lovely shade of pink with little flecks of cranberry throughout.
Bake the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Transfer it to the oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set. You may notice that the edges appear a bit puffed, but that’s okay! The cheesecake will settle as it cools.
Cool and refrigerate: Once done, let the cheesecake cool in the pan for about an hour at room temperature. After it’s cooled, cover it and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. If you can leave it overnight, even better!
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
When it’s time to serve this stunning cheesecake, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh cranberries or a dollop of whipped cream. A touch of extra orange zest on top adds an elegant finishing touch. Serve slices with a side of mint for a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, your guests will be impressed!
How to Store Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will), store your cheesecake in the fridge! Just cover it securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its freshness. It will keep well for up to five days in the refrigerator. If you want to save it for a special occasion later, you can freeze it as well. Just wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
Softened cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter. You can leave it out for a couple of hours before beginning.
Fresh cranberries: Using fresh cranberries is crucial for that tart flavor. If they’re not available, you can use thawed frozen cranberries.
Zest it up! Don’t skip the orange zest, it brings such a wonderful aroma and brightness to the cheesecake.
Water bath method: To achieve a creamy texture and minimize cracks, consider using a water bath. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger pan filled with an inch of water before baking.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a swirl of cranberry sauce on top for an extra festive touch. You could even mix in a bit of melted white chocolate into the batter for a richer flavor!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is traditional, you can use crushed Oreos or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free version.
Can I make mini cheesecakes instead?
Yes! Simply divide the batter into muffin tins lined with paper liners and adjust your baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the cheesecake?
Yes, refrigerating the cheesecake helps it to set properly and develop a better flavor. It’s also a delicious way to enjoy it chilled!
There you have it! Your guide to making a beautiful Cranberry Orange Cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and deliciousness!
Print
Cranberry Orange Cheesecake
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on classic cheesecake combining tart cranberries and citrusy orange for a stunning dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of one orange
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in sour cream, cranberries, orange juice, and zest until combined.
- Pour mixture over the crust and bake for 55-60 minutes, until set.
- Cool at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Notes
For a creamy texture, consider using a water bath method while baking. Enjoy chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg