Classic Blueberry Cheesecake Recipe
Classic Blueberry Cheesecake is a popular dessert that features a creamy, tangy filling made with cream cheese and sour cream on top of a graham cracker crust. The cheesecake is typically topped with a layer of sweet blueberry compote, which adds a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful purple color. This dessert is a favorite among cheesecake lovers and is often served on special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, and dinner parties. Making a Classic Blueberry Cheesecake requires a few basic baking skills, but the end result is well worth the effort.
The first step to creating the perfect blueberry cheesecake is gathering all the necessary ingredients. The list includes cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, graham cracker crust, and of course, blueberries. It is important to ensure that all the ingredients are at room temperature before beginning, as this allows for easier mixing and incorporation.
Next, it’s time to prepare the crust. The crust is the foundation of the cheesecake, and it is essential that it is done correctly. The graham cracker crust provides a crunchy and buttery texture that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake filling. To create the crust, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture is well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, ensuring that it is even and compact. Bake the crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until it is lightly browned and fragrant.
Once the crust is complete, it’s time to prepare the cheesecake filling. Begin by mixing the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in the sour cream and mix until it is well combined. Finally, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack or become too dense.
Now it’s time to assemble the cheesecake. Pour the filling onto the crust, making sure that it is evenly distributed. Add the blueberries on top of the filling, gently pressing them down so that they sink into the mixture. To create a marbled effect, use a toothpick or knife to swirl the blueberries into the filling.
The final step is baking and cooling the cheesecake. Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even baking and to prevent cracking. Once the cheesecake is baked, allow it to cool gradually by turning off the oven and letting it sit inside for a few minutes before removing it. Then let it cool at room temperature for about an hour before placing it in the refrigerator to chill for at least four hours or overnight.
When it’s time to serve the cheesecake, remove it from the springform pan and cut it into slices. This classic blueberry cheesecake is perfectly creamy and rich, with a balanced sweetness from the blueberries and a hint of tanginess from the cream cheese. It can be served plain or topped with whipped cream or additional blueberries for a beautiful presentation.
When it comes to storing the cheesecake, it’s important to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. The cheesecake can be stored for up to five days in the refrigerator, but it’s best to consume it within the first three days for optimal freshness. If you want to reheat the cheesecake, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 1/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 5 large eggs
- 1 16-ounce container sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup all-fruit blueberry spread
- 2 6-ounce baskets fresh blueberries or 12-ounce package frozen blueberries, thawed, drained
Instructions
Make crust:
Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F. Wrap outside of 10-inch-diameter springform pan with heavy-duty foil. Combine all ingredients in processor. Blend using on/off turns just until crumbs are moist. Press crumb mixture firmly onto bottom and 2 inches up sides of prepared pan. Bake until crust begins to brown, about 8 minutes. Transfer crust to rack and cool. Maintain oven temperature.
Make filling:
Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl until will blended. Beat in flour. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating just until combined. Beat in sour cream, milk and vanilla. Pour filling into crust.
Place springform pan in large roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into roasting pan to come 1 inch up sides of pan. Bake cheesecake until just set in center and top is slightly puffed and golden brown, about 1 hour. Turn off oven; keep door closed. Let cheesecake stand in oven 1 hour. Remove cheesecake from roasting pan. Refrigerate until cold, at least 6 hours. Cover; refrigerate overnight.
IV. Tips for Success
To ensure that your blueberry cheesecake turns out perfectly, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. First, make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This will ensure that everything mixes together smoothly. Second, beat the ingredients properly, making sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly. Third, use a water bath to prevent the cheesecake from cracking. Lastly, let the cheesecake cool slowly to room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator.
V. Serving and Storage
There are many ways to serve a classic blueberry cheesecake. You can top it with additional blueberries or whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness. To store your cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cheesecake as it can become rubbery.
In conclusion, the classic blueberry cheesecake is a dessert that has stood the test of time. Its creamy filling, sweet blueberry topping, and crunchy graham cracker crust make it a beloved dessert around the world. Follow the tips outlined above, and you’ll be sure to create a delicious and impressive