Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that wraps your senses in a creamy embrace of sweet and tangy flavors. This classic cheesecake, with its luscious cream cheese filling and a glossy cherry topping, is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. It not only tastes heavenly but also brings a touch of elegance to your table, making it worth every effort. With its easy step-by-step recipe, even those new to baking will find success, pleasing both family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will find this Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for anyone, from novice bakers to seasoned pros. With straightforward directions and minimal ingredients, it doesn’t require any complex techniques, allowing you to whip it up quickly. This cheesecake can be a family-friendly dessert that appeals to palates of all ages, whether at a birthday party, holiday celebration, or simply an afternoon treat. Best of all, every bite provides pure bliss with rich creaminess complemented by the tartness of cherries, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

To create a mouthwatering Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake, gather the following ingredients that will transform your dish into a delectable delight:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These provide a crunchy base with a hint of sweetness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to the crust.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and holds the crust together.
• 2 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, delivering creamy and rich flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
• 3 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and achieving that luscious texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors present in the cheesecake.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy touch that balances the sweetness.
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling: A beautiful and flavorful topping that crowns the cheesecake beautifully.

Step-by-Step Directions for Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C): Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent the cheesecake from sticking.

2. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Make the cheesecake filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well incorporated, and then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is delightful and smooth.

4. Combine with the crust: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top gently with a spatula. Bake this heavenly mixture for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.

5. Chill the cheesecake: Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. After that, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Finish with cherries: Just before serving, top the cheesecake with the luscious cherry pie filling, creating an inviting and stunning presentation.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your baking game, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras to enhance your Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake experience:

• For a richer cheesecake, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
• Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice can enhance the acidity and freshness, creating a balanced flavor.
• Experiment with other toppings such as fresh berries or chocolate sauce for a delightful twist.
• Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this will help you achieve a smoother filling without lumps.
• For a unique flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cheesecake filling, giving it an unexpected kick.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present your Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake with flair to impress your guests. Here are some creative ideas for serving:

• Slice the cheesecake into wedges and drizzle additional cherry sauce or chocolate syrup for an eye-catching presentation.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a creamy complement.
• Serve alongside fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
• Accompany with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries to enhance the dessert’s flavors and textures.
• Offer a cup of black coffee or a light tea to balance the sweetness.

Nutritional Information

While the indulgence of Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake is hard to resist, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes. A typical slice contains around 350-400 calories. The breakdown includes protein, fats, and carbs that make up this rich dessert. It might be worthwhile to savor a single slice occasionally as a special treat while balancing your overall diet.

Storing Tips & Variations for Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

Making a delectable Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake means you’ll likely want to enjoy it over a few days. Here are some storing tips to keep it fresh:

• Storing: Keep any leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight. Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
• Healthier swaps: Consider using low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute if you’re looking to lighten up the dessert.

Get creative with variations by swapping out the cherry topping for other fruits, like blueberries, strawberries, or a mix of seasonal berries for a refreshing spin.

Conclusion for Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

There’s no better time than now to whip up your own Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake. With its delightful balance of creamy richness and fruity freshness, it’s bound to become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and express your culinary creativity. Enjoy every moment spent making this sweet masterpiece!

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, using low-fat cream cheese can result in a lighter cheesecake without significant compromise on taste.

2. How long should I chill the cheesecake before serving?
Aim for at least 4 hours of refrigeration to allow the cheesecake to set properly, though overnight chilling is ideal for the best flavor.

3. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be cooked down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a homemade cherry topping for a fresh experience.

4. What if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Cracking can occur from rapid temperature changes or overbaking. To avoid this, bake in a water bath or ensure a gradual cooling process after baking.

5. Can I make this cheesecake in advance for an event?
Yes, you can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further. Just ensure it’s stored properly in the fridge.

Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

A delightful and indulgent dessert that features a creamy cheesecake filling topped with a glossy cherry pie filling, making it a perfect choice for gatherings and celebrations.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 375

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs These provide a crunchy base with a hint of sweetness.
• 0.25 cups granulated sugar A touch of sweetness to the crust.
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and holds the crust together.

For the cheesecake filling

• 16 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened The star of the show, delivering creamy and rich flavor.
• 1 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
• 3 large eggs Essential for binding the ingredients and achieving that luscious texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances all the flavors present in the cheesecake.
• 0.5 cups sour cream Adds a tangy touch that balances the sweetness.

For the topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling A beautiful and flavorful topping that crowns the cheesecake beautifully.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent the cheesecake from sticking.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well incorporated, and then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is delightful and smooth.

Baking

1. Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top gently with a spatula. Bake this heavenly mixture for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.
2. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. After that, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

Finishing Touch

1. Just before serving, top the cheesecake with the luscious cherry pie filling.

Notes

For a richer cheesecake, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream. Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice can enhance the acidity and freshness. Experiment with other toppings such as fresh berries or chocolate sauce for a delightful twist. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother filling without lumps. Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for an unexpected kick.