Cranberry And White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Creamy Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe Magic

Sweet temptations like this cranberry and white chocolate cheesecake dance between festive elegance and decadent comfort.

Creamy layers promise a delightful contrast of tart and smooth flavors.

Seasonal berries mingle with rich chocolate in a dessert that celebrates winter’s most luxurious moments.

Delicate crumbs form a buttery foundation for the silky filling that will make you swoon.

Sophisticated yet approachable, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning centerpiece.

Prepare to impress with a dessert that whispers indulgence in every single bite.

You cannot resist the magic of this irresistible cheesecake.

Why You’ll Want to Make Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake Again

  • Create Stunning Dessert: Impress family and friends with a gorgeous cheesecake that looks professionally made, featuring beautiful white chocolate and cranberry swirls.
  • Master Seasonal Baking: Enjoy a perfect winter dessert that combines tart cranberries with sweet white chocolate, creating a delightful flavor combination that celebrates seasonal ingredients.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting cranberry placement or adding extra white chocolate drizzle, making it a versatile dessert for various preferences and occasions.
  • Simple Showstopper: Achieve bakery-quality results with straightforward steps, minimal specialized equipment, and ingredients commonly found in most kitchens, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Essentials for Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake

Crust Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a delicious and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crumb mixture and creates a rich, golden texture.
  • Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  • Eggs: Help bind the cheesecake and provide structure to the filling.
  • White Chocolate Chips: Contribute a rich, sweet flavor and smooth texture to the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess to the filling.
  • Heavy Cream: Enhances the richness and creates a silky smooth consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Cranberries, Fresh: Bring a tart and vibrant burst of flavor and color to the cheesecake.
  • Cornstarch: Helps stabilize the filling and prevent cracking.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Baking Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake Made Simple

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Set your oven to 325°F. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and line its bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal.

Step 2: Create Graham Cracker Crust

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Butter
  • Sugar

Melt butter and blend thoroughly with cracker crumbs and sugar until the mixture looks like coarse sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Melt White Chocolate

Use a double boiler or microwave to gently melt white chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate transforms into a smooth, glossy liquid.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesecake Batter

  • Cream cheese
  • Eggs
  • Sour cream
  • Vanilla extract
  • Heavy cream
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt

Beat cream cheese until silky and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Incorporate melted white chocolate and remaining ingredients, stirring until the batter becomes uniform and luxuriously smooth.

Step 5: Add Cranberry Surprise

Gently fold fresh cranberries into the cheesecake batter, ensuring they’re distributed evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth

Transfer the batter onto the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to create a perfectly smooth surface.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cheesecake into the preheated oven. Bake for 55-60 minutes until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Remove from oven and let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for one hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Release the springform pan carefully. Optional: Garnish with additional fresh cranberries for a festive touch. Slice and serve this decadent dessert to wow your guests.

Tips to Master Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Prevent Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to create a moist environment and reduce surface cracks, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Control Cranberry Distribution: Toss fresh cranberries in a light dusting of flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
  • Soften Ingredients: Allow cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free batter.
  • Master Melting Technique: Use low, gentle heat when melting white chocolate to prevent scorching and maintain a silky, glossy consistency.
  • Chill Completely: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and achieve the perfect set texture.

Creative Spins on Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Festive Holiday Cranberry Cheesecake: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest to the batter for a warm, seasonal flavor profile that enhances the cranberry's tartness.
  • Chocolate Lovers' Dream: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate and add a chocolate ganache topping for an intense chocolate experience.
  • Nutty Cranberry Crunch: Mix chopped pecans or almonds into the graham cracker crust and sprinkle toasted nuts on top for added texture and nutty richness.
  • No-Bake Berry Bliss: Transform the recipe into a chilled cheesecake by using gelatin, skipping the baking process, and creating a light, creamy dessert perfect for summer gatherings.

Perfect Matches for Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Savor Complementary Flavors: Pair this decadent cranberry and white chocolate cheesecake with beverages and accompaniments that enhance its rich profile.
  • Sip Dessert Wine: Select a late harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti, whose sweet notes and light acidity beautifully balance the cheesecake's creamy texture and tart cranberry undertones.
  • Elevate with Coffee: Serve alongside a smooth espresso or cappuccino, allowing the robust coffee flavors to cut through the dessert's sweetness and provide a sophisticated contrast.
  • Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add a side of sugared cranberries or candied orange peel to introduce a bright, zesty element that complements the cheesecake's luxurious white chocolate base.

Preserve Your Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake the Right Way

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent absorbing other food odors and maintain its creamy texture.
  • Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, where it can last up to 2-3 months without losing quality.
  • Keep the cheesecake in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf, away from the door to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent texture changes.
  • When ready to serve frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight, which helps preserve its smooth consistency and prevents moisture buildup.

FAQs for Cranberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw and pat them dry before folding into the cheesecake batter to prevent excess moisture.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually to room temperature before refrigerating to minimize cracking.

  • What if I don't have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removing the cheesecake will be more challenging. A springform pan is recommended for easier serving.

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Cranberry And White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Cranberry And White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


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4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy cranberry and white chocolate cheesecake brings festive winter magic to dessert tables. Luxurious layers of tangy berries and sweet chocolate create a perfect holiday indulgence you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cream cheese
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 2 large eggs

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar

Finishing/Binding Ingredients:

  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Melt butter and mix with graham cracker crumbs and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even, compact base for the cheesecake.
  4. Melt white chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth and fully liquefied.
  5. Beat cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until creamy and smooth, gradually incorporating eggs one at a time.
  6. Fold in melted white chocolate, sour cream, vanilla extract, heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt until the mixture is uniform and silky.
  7. Gently fold fresh cranberries into the cheesecake batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
  8. Pour the batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
  10. Remove from oven and allow to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  11. Before serving, carefully release the springform pan and garnish with additional fresh cranberries if desired.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality white chocolate chips for a richer, smoother flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake.
  • Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter that blends perfectly.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter after adding eggs to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracking during baking.
  • Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water to ensure even baking and prevent surface cracks.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts like almonds.
  • Swap fresh cranberries with frozen ones if out of season, but pat them dry to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 456
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 31 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 102 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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