Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

ByMia Harper
Delicious slice of Cranberry Orange Cheesecake with vibrant garnishes

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the tangy flavor of fresh cranberries with the bright taste of orange, all enveloped in a creamy cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The vibrant colors and flavors will impress your guests and leave everyone with a smile.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Servings: 10
  • Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 310
  • Protein: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 35 grams
  • Fat: 17 grams
  • Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugar: 22 grams
  • Sodium: 180 mg

Why Make This Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

This Cranberry Orange Cheesecake stands out with its perfect balance of flavors. The tartness of the cranberries enhances the creamy texture of the cheesecake and the sweet notes from the orange juice and zest elevate the experience. This dessert not only looks stunning with its vibrant colors, but it also offers a fresh twist on the classic cheesecake that’s sure to please any crowd. Plus, it can be made a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without spending all your time in the kitchen.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs,
1/4 cup sugar,
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted,
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened,
1 cup sugar,
2 large eggs,
1 teaspoon vanilla extract,
1/2 cup sour cream,
1 cup fresh cranberries,
1/2 cup orange juice,
zest of 1 orange

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is crucial as a properly heated oven ensures even cooking.

### Step 2: Mixing the Crust

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust.

### Step 3: Mixing the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and orange juice until everything is well-blended. Gently fold in the fresh cranberries and orange zest, being careful not to break the cranberries too much.

### Step 4: Baking

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures a creamy texture.

### Step 5: Cooling

Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Serve your Cranberry Orange Cheesecake chilled, garnished with a few fresh cranberries and a sprinkle of orange zest for an elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream on top or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for those who enjoy a little extra sweetness.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

To store your cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

  • Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • Don’t overbeat the mixture after adding the eggs; this keeps the texture smooth.
  • For a sweeter cheesecake, you can increase the sugar in the filling slightly or serve with sweetened whipped cream.
  • If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work well—just don’t thaw them beforehand.

Delicious Variations

  • Cinnamon Swirl: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the filling for warm spice notes.
  • Chocolate Cranberry: Mix in mini chocolate chips with the cranberries for an added dimension.
  • Ginger Crust: Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
    Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and creaminess of the cheesecake.

  • How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?
    The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.

  • Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
    Absolutely! This cheesecake is even better the next day, so feel free to make it up to two days in advance.

  • What can I use instead of fresh cranberries?
    You can substitute dried cranberries or even cherries if you’re looking for a different fruit flavor.

  • How should I serve the cheesecake?
    You can serve it plain, with a fruit coulis, or topped with whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee!

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a fantastic dessert that embodies the flavors of the season. With its creamy texture, delightful fruity taste, and beautiful presentation, it is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dessert that will bring smiles and satisfaction all around. Enjoy making this delicious treat, and don’t hesitate to personalize it with your creative flair!

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