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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.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375

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.