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Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake

A delightful dessert combining creamy Philadelphia cream cheese with sweet, tart fresh cherries, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Crispy and slightly sweet, forms the perfect foundation.
  • 0.25 cups sugar Adds sweetness to balance the tartness.
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter, melted Provides moisture and richness to the crust.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
  • 3 cups Philadelphia cream cheese, softened The star ingredient for creaminess.
  • 1 cup sour cream Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar To sweeten the creamy filling.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses aroma and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens flavors.
  • 4 large eggs Helps the cheesecake set perfectly.
Cherry Topping Ingredients
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved Adds a burst of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons cherry juice Enhances the cherry flavor.
  • 0.25 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the whipped cream for topping.
  • 0.25 cups heavy whipping cream Adds rich texture to topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes and let cool.
Make the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, beat together softened Philadelphia cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Bake
  1. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
Cool the Cheesecake
  1. Cool at room temperature then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Cherry Topping
  1. Combine halved cherries with cherry juice and allow to sit for 10 minutes.
Whip the Cream
  1. Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cheesecake
  1. Spread whipped cream over cheesecake surface and top with cherry mixture.
Serve
  1. Slice into wedges and serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling. To avoid cracks, bake in a water bath. Serve with additional fresh cherries or cherry juice for presentation.