# Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping
## Introduction
Elevate your holiday festivities with our scrumptious Holiday Cheesecake topped with delicious and vibrant mixed berries! It’s creamy, sweet, tangy, and overall delightful—a perfect dessert after your sumptuous festive meal.
## Why Make This Recipe
This Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping is not just another peculiarity to add on your dessert table. Why? Because it:
– Has a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
– Can be prepared ahead of time
– Is a crowd-pleaser!
– Brings an air of festivity with its rich texture and vibrant berry color
## How to Make Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping
### Ingredients
#### Cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 32 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
#### Berry Topping:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
### Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the cheesecake batter by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add sugar, then eggs one at a time—making sure to mix well after each egg. Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream until creamy.
3. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, then bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is slightly set. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
4. For the berry topping, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens. This should take about 10 minutes.
5. After the cheesecake is completely cooled, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Before serving, spread the cooled berry mixture over the cheesecake.
## How to Serve Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping
Serve the Holiday Cheesecake chilled with a generous berry topping. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an added creaminess.
## How to Store Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping
It’s best to keep the Holiday Cheesecake in the refrigerator, wrapped in foil or a plastic wrap. It can last for up to 1 week.
## Tips to Make Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping
– Allow your cream cheese to reach room temperature. This way, it’s easier to beat and it incorporates better with the other ingredients.
– While baking the cheesecake, avoid opening the oven door. It can cause the cheesecake to crack.
– Chill the cheesecake thoroughly for best results.
## Variation: Chocolate Crust Holiday Cheesecake
For a chocolatey twist, replace graham cracker crumbs with chocolate biscuit crumbs and follow the same recipe.
## FAQs
Q. Why did my cheesecake crack?
A. There are several reasons why your cheesecake might crack. Over-beating the eggs, baking at a high temperature, and sudden temperature changes are some of the main reasons.
Q. Can the Holiday Cheesecake be made in advance?
A. Yes, you can make the Holiday Cheesecake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This actually helps in setting the cheesecake better.
Q. How to know when the cheesecake is done?
A. The cheesecake is done when it still jiggles in the middle but the sides are set.
Happy holiday baking! Enjoy this wonderful treat of Holiday Cheesecake with Berry Topping with your loved ones.
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