This Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is a fruity delight! With a creamy filling topped with fresh berries and juicy peaches, it’s perfect for warm days.
Every bite is like a sunny vacation on a plate! I love making this dessert because it’s refreshing and so easy to whip up. It’s a hit at picnics and barbecues!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a deliciously sweet crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs instead.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth filling. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative. I’ve found that brands with a thicker consistency work best.
Sour Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the filling. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, giving it a nice tang.
Fruits: Fresh peaches and summer berries are ideal for topping. You can mix it up with cherries, or even mango for a tropical twist if peaches aren’t in season!
How Do I Prevent Cracking in My Cheesecake?
Cracking is a common issue with cheesecakes, but following a few simple steps can help you avoid it:
- Bake in a water bath (bain-marie) for a gentler cooking environment. Just wrap your springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with water.
- Don’t overbeat the mixture. Whisk until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Leave the cheesecake in the oven after baking. This gradually lowers the temperature, reducing the chance of cracks.
These tips have helped me achieve smooth and beautiful cheesecakes every time!
How to Make Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (675 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1 ripe peach, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheesecake takes about 15 minutes of prep time, 60 minutes to bake, and an additional 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. Patience is key, but the delicious results are absolutely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to create a nice, even crust. Bake it for about 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
2. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
3. Assembling and Baking:
Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
4. Chilling the Cheesecake:
After the hour in the oven, remove the cheesecake and let it cool for a bit. Then, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step is vital for the best texture!
5. Adding the Toppings:
Before serving, arrange the thin slices of peach and the mixed summer berries decoratively on top of the cheesecake. If you’d like, you can gently warm the apricot jam and brush it over the fruit for a lovely shiny glaze.
6. Serving:
Slice your delicious cheesecake and serve it chilled. Enjoy the delightful flavors of summer with each bite! Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home.
FAQ for Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Can I Use Different Fruits for Topping?
Absolutely! While peaches and summer berries are delicious, feel free to experiment with other fruits like cherries, kiwi, or tropical fruits like mango and pineapple. Just make sure the fruits are fresh for the best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep it in the springform pan or transfer it to an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped well in plastic wrap for up to 2 months!
Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance is recommended. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it sets perfectly in the fridge. Just add the fruit topping just before you serve it for the best presentation!
What Should I Do if the Cheesecake Cracks?
If your cheesecake does crack, don’t worry! It will still taste delicious. To minimize this next time, ensure you mix the batter just until combined, bake in a water bath, and allow it to cool gradually in the oven. If it does crack, you can cover it with fruit topping for a lovely disguise!
