Description
Summer Berry Cheesecake Delight is a creamy and luscious dessert combining a rich cream cheese filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a vibrant mix of fresh summer berries. Perfectly balanced to offer a refreshing yet indulgent treat, this chilled cheesecake is ideal for warm weather occasions, showcasing colorful berries and subtle citrus notes that brighten every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Topping Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate to set while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth in a large bowl. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overmixing. Fold in lemon zest and lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm and flavors to meld.
- Top with Berries: Just before serving, arrange fresh mixed berries artistically over the cheesecake. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with fruit glaze for added sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a lump-free, smooth filling.
- Do not overmix batter to prevent cracking during baking.
- Consider using a water bath to ensure even baking and reduce cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
- Use fresh, seasonal berries for the most vibrant and naturally sweet topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg