Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake

It’s hard not to get excited when talking about Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake. Have you ever indulged in a dessert that is not only rich and creamy but also bursting with the bright, tangy flavor of raspberries? You’re in for a real treat! This recipe combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the tartness of fresh and freeze-dried raspberries. The result? A stunning cheesecake that’s equally pleasing to the eyes and the palate. Trust me, whether it’s a special occasion or just a well-deserved treat after a long week, this cheesecake will become your go-to dessert. So, let’s get baking and whip up something truly unforgettable!

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake comes down to a few key components. First off, the unique combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a silky texture. When you take a bite, it will melt in your mouth, leaving a sensation that’s almost cloud-like.

Next, incorporating both freeze-dried and fresh raspberries genuinely enhances the flavor. The freeze-dried raspberries provide intense raspberry notes throughout the cheesecake, while the fresh ones offer pops of tartness and color. Speaking of color, the vibrant hue of the raspberries against the creamy filling makes for a show-stopping presentation.

Lastly, using the water bath method during baking is a game-changer. This technique ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly without cracking. As a result, you’ll end up with a beautifully smooth surface that’s both creamy and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake

Imagine serving this cheesecake at your next gathering. Your friends and family will be incredibly impressed! This Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake is perfect for celebrations like birthdays or holidays, but it’s also a fabulous dessert for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Every bite offers a beautiful balance between the tartness of the raspberries and the sweetness of the cheesecake itself. It’s a flavor combination that creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Plus, it’s visually stunning, adding a touch of elegance to your table.

So, it’s not just about taste; it’s about elevating any occasion with a dessert that truly shines.

Ingredients

• Graham Cracker Crust
• 2 1/2 cups fine graham cracker crumbs (about 2 packets)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

• 10 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• Raspberry Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 oz freeze-dried raspberries, ground to a fine crumb
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, room temperature
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, room temperature

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• Raspberry Sauce

• 12 oz frozen raspberries
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 12 oz fresh raspberries
• 3 tbsp water

Graham Cracker Crust Preparation

Let’s kick things off with the crust! First, preheat your oven to 325℉. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and spray it with nonstick baking spray. For good measure, line the bottom with parchment paper and spray it again, making it easier to remove later.

Next, toss those graham crackers into your food processor and blend them until they look like fine crumbs. In a separate mixing bowl, combine these crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter. Give it a good mix using a fork until everything is well combined.

Now, press this mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of your springform pan. A measuring cup is perfect for compacting it. Once that’s done, pop it into the oven for about 11 minutes. It’s just enough time to get that perfect crust.

Raspberry Cheesecake Filling

Now for the star of the show, the cheesecake filling! Begin by heating water on the stove to use later for the baking method. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar on high speed for about two minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

In your food processor, grind the freeze-dried raspberries into a fine powder. Add this to your mixing bowl along with the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined. It’s crucial not to overdo it; a spatula is great for ensuring everything is well-blended without incorporating too much air. Finally, pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing it out.

Water Bath Method for Baking

Here’s where the water bath comes into play. You have two options for this method, which helps keep everything even during baking. Option one is to place the springform pan inside a 10-inch cake pan filled with hot water, halfway up the sides. This method prevents any water from seeping into the crust.

Option two involves wrapping your springform pan tightly in aluminum foil to keep water out, then putting it in a roasting pan that’s filled with hot water, again halfway up the sides.

Bake your cheesecake for 70-80 minutes. Check that the edges are set while the center still has a slight jiggle. Once it’s done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting it cool in there for about 30 minutes. Afterward, remove it and cool completely on a wire rack while it’s still in the pan. Finally, wrap it in foil and refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight for best results.

Raspberry Sauce Preparation

While your cheesecake is chilling, let’s make that luscious raspberry sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the frozen raspberries and sugar, bringing it to a simmer. Blend everything in a food processor and strain it through a sieve to catch those pesky seeds.

Return the strained sauce to the pan and let it simmer until it thickens, which should take about 10 minutes. Once it’s ready, transfer it to a bowl to cool. If you want to adjust the thickness, add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Just before serving, gently fold in those fresh raspberries until they’re nicely coated.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake is as important as making it! Once chilled, it’s time for the final touch. Top your cheesecake with the vibrant raspberry sauce for a stunning finish.

For added creaminess, you might also consider pairing it with whipped cream or dollops of yogurt. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate the dessert.

Tips for Success

A few helpful tips can make a significant difference in your cheesecake’s texture. First, ensure that all ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature. This step makes for a smoother batter.

Secondly, be cautious when mixing in the eggs. It’s tempting to whisk vigorously, but doing so introduces excess air, which can cause those dreaded cracks. Gentle mixing is the key.

Variations

Feel like mixing things up? You can easily substitute the raspberry filling for other fruits, like fresh strawberries or blueberries, to create a delightful new flavor profile. If you’re a chocolate lover, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce on top. It’ll provide a rich contrast that you won’t be able to resist!

Storage Tips

After all that hard work, you’re going to want to keep your delicious cheesecake fresh. Cover any leftovers tightly in the fridge for up to five days. If you have more than you can eat, freeze slices for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before indulging again.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?
Of course! Fresh raspberries will work beautifully for both the filling and the sauce.

2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Using a water bath helps keep the temperature even, which makes a big difference in avoiding those annoying cracks.

3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a day or two in advance allows those flavors to meld, and it only gets better!

4. Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
Yes, absolutely! Overnight chilling enhances both the texture and the flavor of the cheesecake.

5. Can I add more raspberries?
Feel free to tweak the raspberry quantity to your liking, just be careful with adding too much liquid to keep its structure intact.

This Ultra Raspberry Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. With its creamy texture and delightful raspberry infusion, each bite will take you on a flavor journey. Perfectly balanced and visually stunning, it’s destined to be a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy the process, and even more, enjoy sharing this delightful cheesecake with your loved ones!

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