Name: Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream; 2 cups (340g) fresh or frozen pitted cherries; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Get ready to embark on a delectable journey with our showstopping Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert. This decadent treat combines the irresistible flavors of creamy cheesecake and tart cherry compote, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds.

✨ What Makes This Recipe Special

The secret to the magic of this Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert lies in the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich, velvety cheesecake layer is complemented by the vibrant and tangy cherry compote, creating a culinary symphony that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it as a special dessert for a dinner party or indulging in it as a self-care treat, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
2 cups (340g) fresh or frozen pitted cherries
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

The beauty of this Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of rich cream cheese, tangy cherry compote, and a touch of sweetness creates the decadent flavor profile that has made cheesecake recipes perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in the 1 cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen cherries, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Carefully spoon the cherry compote over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Bake the layered cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for an additional 1 hour.
Step 8: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 55-65 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes

Compared to traditional cherry cheesecake recipes, which can take up to 2 hours to prepare, this Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert saves you 25-35% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 280mg

These Layered Cherry Cheesecake Desserts provide approximately 20% of your daily calcium requirements and 15% of your daily vitamin C needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🥬 Make It Even Healthier

• Reduced-fat option: Use reduced-fat or low-fat cream cheese and sour cream to lower the overall fat content.
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the granulated sugar with an equal amount of your preferred low-calorie sweetener or sugar substitute.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the cream cheese and sour cream with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew-based or coconut-based cream cheese and sour cream.
• Added protein: Fold in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the cheesecake batter for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Stir in a handful of finely chopped spinach or kale to the cherry compote for added nutrients and fiber.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 15% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert.

🍴 Perfect Pairings

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
• Pair with a light and refreshing green salad for a balanced dessert course.
• Complement the cheesecake with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled sweet white wine for a luxurious after-dinner experience.
• For a casual gathering, serve the Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert alongside a selection of fresh berries and whipped cream.
• Create an elegant dessert platter with the cheesecake, fresh fruit, and a selection of artisanal chocolates or truffles for a visually stunning presentation.

❗ Critical Don’ts

• Overmixing the batter: Be careful not to overbeat the cheesecake batter, as this can result in a dense, heavy texture.
• Rushing the cooling process: Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven and then in the refrigerator is essential for achieving the perfect creamy texture.
• Skipping the water bath: While not required for this recipe, using a water bath (bain-marie) can help prevent the cheesecake from cracking on top.
• Forgetting the chilling time: Resist the temptation to dive in too soon – the cheesecake needs at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) in the refrigerator to fully set and develop its signature creamy texture.
• Overloading the compote: Be mindful not to add too much cherry compote, as it can make the cheesecake soggy and difficult to slice cleanly.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Layered Cherry Cheesecake Desserts retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the fully chilled and set cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the cheesecake batter and compote separately, then assemble and freeze the unbaked cheesecake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked cheesecake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: For best results, serve the cheesecake chilled or at room temperature. If desired, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to slightly warm the compote.

❓ FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare the Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert?

The Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or the unbaked cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to prepare the cheesecake at least a day in advance and allow it to chill in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with a variety of other fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries, or even a mixed berry compote. Simply substitute the cherries with an equal amount of your preferred fruit and adjust the sweetener as needed to balance the tartness.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?

Yes, the Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use cashew-based or coconut-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives. To reduce the carbohydrates, substitute the granulated sugar with a low-calorie sweetener or sugar substitute. Additionally, you can add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to boost the protein content.

What if the cheesecake cracks on top?

While cracks on the surface of a cheesecake are common, especially if the oven temperature is too high or the cheesecake is overbaked, there are a few steps you can take to prevent or minimize them. Ensure that the oven temperature is not too high, avoid opening the oven door during baking, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. If cracks do occur, you can easily conceal them by topping the cheesecake with the cherry compote or other desired toppings.

Can I add extra mix-ins to the cheesecake batter?

Absolutely! The Layered Cherry Cheesecake Dessert is highly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different mix-ins. Consider folding in chopped chocolate, crushed cookies, or a swirl of caramel or raspberry sauce to the cheesecake batter before baking. Just be mindful not to overfill the pan, as too many additional ingredients can affect the baking time and texture of the cheesecake.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These Layered Cherry Cheesecake Desserts represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a showstopping dessert for a special occasion or indulging in them as a delightful treat, they’re sure to impress with their rich, creamy texture and vibrant cherry compote topping. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Layered Cherry Cheesecake Desserts demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking process. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of irresistible layered cheesecake bliss!