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Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake

Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake

The Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is a creamy and luscious dessert that combines a smooth, velvety cheesecake base with the fresh, juicy flavors of summer berries and ripe peaches. This recipe offers a refreshing fruit fusion, an elegant yet homely appeal, and is perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to special celebrations. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and smooth filling enhanced with tangy lemon, and a vibrant topping of fresh berries for a light and indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup finely diced ripe peaches
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

  • 1 cup fresh summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing your graham crackers finely, then mix them with melted butter and a bit of sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan, creating an even layer. Chill it in the fridge while you prepare the filling to set the crust perfectly.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is silky with no lumps.
  3. Incorporate Peaches and Lemon: Gently fold in the finely diced peaches, lemon zest, and a splash of lemon juice to infuse fresh, fruity notes into the cheesecake filling without overpowering its creamy texture.
  4. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour your filling over the prepared crust and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. This ensures the cheesecake stays delightfully tender once cooled.
  5. Chill and Add Berry Topping: Allow your cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Just before serving, top with an assortment of fresh summer berries arranged artfully for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
  • Don’t overmix the batter to prevent excess air and cracks during baking.
  • Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to avoid drying out and cracking.
  • Use fresh peaches and berries for the best flavor and texture.
  • Refrigerate cheesecake overnight for optimal texture and flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer dessert, cheesecake, berries, peaches, fresh fruit, creamy dessert, gluten-free dessert