This Fresh Summer Berry Peach Cheesecake is a fruity delight! With creamy cheesecake and sweet peaches, it’s topped with fresh berries that make every bite burst with flavor.
Who wouldn’t want a slice of this colorful dessert? It’s like summer on a plate! I love serving it at picnics—it always steals the spotlight! 🍑🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can easily use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers instead. They provide a delicious base, with a slightly different flavor.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, a block of cashew or almond cream cheese works great too!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be a good substitute here. It offers a similar creaminess with a bit of tang without needing sour cream.
Peaches: If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches, but make sure they’re well-drained. Fresh apricots or nectarines also work wonderfully!
Fresh Berries: Mix up the berries based on what you like! Blackberries or any mix of seasonal fruits would be delightful. Frozen berries can work if fresh is unavailable, just thaw and drain excess moisture.
How Do I Ensure My Cheesecake Doesn’t Crack?
One of the common challenges with cheesecakes is cracking while baking. Here are some tips to help you achieve a smooth top:
- **Bake Slowly:** Lower temperatures (like 325°F) help reduce cracks. A gentle bake allows your cheesecake to cook evenly.
- **Water Bath:** Consider using a water bath (bain-marie). Wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with water while baking. This helps keep moisture in, reducing the chances of drying out.
- **Don’t Overbeat the Eggs:** When adding eggs, mix just until incorporated. Overbeating can introduce too much air, leading to cracks.
- **Cool Gradually:** After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar. This slow cooling helps prevent sudden temperature changes that could cause cracking.
Fresh Summer Berry Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Peach Topping:
- 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Fresh Berry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
Optional Glaze:
- 1/4 cup apricot jam
- 1 tablespoon water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheesecake will take about 30 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. After that, it needs to cool at room temperature and chill for at least 4 hours in the fridge or overnight for best results. So, plan for a total of about 5-6 hours, including chilling time, before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix it well until all the crumbs are moistened, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the sugar, mixing until the mixture is fluffy. Then, add the vanilla extract. It’s time to add the eggs! Do this one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until combined. Finally, blend in the sour cream and flour until everything is smoothly mixed together.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Pour half of your cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Next, arrange half of the peach slices on top of this batter. Now, pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the peaches, and then add the rest of the peach slices on top. If you’d like, you can gently swirl the peach slices into the batter using a knife for a marbled effect. Bake this wonderful creation in the preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes. You want the center to be nearly set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, turn off the oven, and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour.
4. Cool and Chill:
Once it’s done, take the cheesecake out of the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. After that, place it in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This helps it firm up and develop lovely flavors!
5. Prepare the Berry Topping:
When you’re ready to serve, arrange the fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on top of your chilled cheesecake. It’s going to look beautiful and inviting!
6. Optional Glaze:
If you want to make it even more special, you can prepare a glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the apricot jam and water, stirring until it’s melted and smooth. Lightly brush this mixture over the peach slices and berries to give them a lovely shine.
7. Slice and Serve:
Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, and your stunning cheesecake is ready to be sliced and served. Enjoy each creamy, fruity bite of your Fresh Summer Berry Peach Cheesecake—perfect for a sunny day!
FAQ for Fresh Summer Berry Peach Cheesecake
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits. Other delicious options include blackberries, cherries, or even citrus slices. Just ensure the fruit is fresh and ripe for the best flavor.
Can I Make This Cheesecake in Advance?
Yes, you can make this cheesecake up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure to store it covered in the refrigerator. This dessert also pairs wonderfully with the flavors as it sits!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To enjoy again, simply slice and enjoy cold, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softened texture.
What Should I Do If the Cheesecake Cracks?
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! It can still taste delicious. To prevent future cracking, bake it in a water bath and avoid overbeating the eggs. A fruit topping can also help conceal any cracks.
