Cheesecake with Fresh Blueberries
Introduction
Cheesecake with fresh blueberries is a delightful dessert that never fails to impress! It’s creamy, sweet, and bursting with fresh berry flavor. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply to enjoy at home. If you’re a fan of cheesecakes, this one is a true winner!
Why Make This Recipe
Making this cheesecake is not only simple but also rewarding. The combination of the rich cream cheese filling and the tartness of the blueberries creates a delicious balance that everyone loves. Plus, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to try, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. You’ll feel proud serving it to your friends and family!
How to Make Cheesecake with Fresh Blueberries
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
- To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and the melted butter until well combined.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust.
- In a larger bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until smooth.
- Add in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to mash them too much.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the prepared crust.
- Bake the cheesecake for about 55 to 60 minutes until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
- Once done, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to let the cheesecake cool gradually for about an hour.
- After that, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight before serving. Enjoy this delicious dessert!
How to Serve Cheesecake with Fresh Blueberries
This cheesecake is best served chilled. Cut it into slices and serve it on a nice plate. You can garnish each slice with extra fresh blueberries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch!
How to Store Cheesecake with Fresh Blueberries
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in the freezer. It will last for up to 3 months!
Tips to Make Cheesecake with Fresh Blueberries
- Make sure your cream cheese is really soft before you start mixing. This helps to avoid lumps in the cheesecake.
- Don’t rush the cooling process. Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven helps to prevent cracks on the top.
- For an extra lemony flavor, you can add some lemon zest to the filling.
Variation
If you want to mix it up, try adding a fruit topping like strawberries or raspberries instead of blueberries. You can also swirl some berry puree into the cheesecake mixture for an artistic touch!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.
2. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
Yes, you can use a regular pie dish, but it may be harder to remove the cheesecake.
3. How long does the cheesecake need to cool?
Let it cool in the oven for about an hour and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving for the best texture.