Print

Summer Berry Cheesecake Delight

Summer Berry Cheesecake Delight

Summer Berry Cheesecake Delight is a creamy, velvety cheesecake topped with a vibrant mix of fresh summer berries. This dessert balances indulgence with light, fresh fruity flavors, perfect for warm days, special occasions, or casual gatherings. Easy to make and customizable, it promises a delicious and refreshing finale to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Berry Topping

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 12 teaspoons granulated sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the base of a springform pan to form a firm and flavorful foundation. Chill briefly to set while preparing the filling.
  2. Mix the Creamy Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until you achieve a luscious, velvety batter without lumps.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling onto the chilled crust. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Use a water bath if possible to ensure even cooking and minimize cracking. After baking, let it cool gradually to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight to set fully.
  4. Prepare the Berry Topping: In a bowl, gently mix fresh berries with lemon juice and optional sugar. Allow to macerate for about 15-20 minutes to release juices and enhance sweetness.
  5. Assemble and Chill: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, spoon the marinated fresh berries evenly over the top just before serving to provide a colorful, juicy finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth filling and prevent lumps.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid incorporating air that may cause cracks.
  • Using a water bath during baking keeps the cheesecake moist and reduces cracking.
  • Chill the cheesecake thoroughly overnight to set properly and enhance flavors.
  • Prefer fresh summer berries over frozen for best texture and flavor contrast.
  • Leftovers can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Cheesecake can be frozen well wrapped for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • If preferred less chilled, let cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer dessert, cheesecake, berry cheesecake, fresh berries, easy cheesecake, gluten-free cheesecake option