Contents
Introduction
Blueberry cheesecake is a delightful dessert that features a creamy and rich cheesecake filling topped with a luscious blueberry compote. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant color and delicious flavor. Here’s how to create this show-stopping dessert from scratch.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Graham Cracker Crust:
– 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers
– 10 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter, melted
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling:
– 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
– 4 large eggs, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh blueberries, washed and dried
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Blueberry Topping:
– 4 cups frozen blueberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons cold water
Prep Time
Preparation time for the cheesecake is approximately 30 minutes, followed by chilling time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 10 hours (including cooling and refrigeration)
– Yield: Serves 12 slices
Enjoy preparing and indulging in this creamy, delicious blueberry cheesecake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with a parchment paper circle and lightly spray the inside of the pan with nonstick spray.
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Use a flat-bottomed glass or a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly.
Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
Reduce the oven temperature to 325F (163C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, and cornstarch on medium-high speed for 1 to 1.5 minutes until smooth.
Lower the mixer speed to low and beat in the lemon zest. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Toss the blueberries in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Gently fold the coated blueberries into the filling mixture.
Pour the filling over the prepared graham cracker crust.
Wrap the outside of the springform pan with 2 layers of aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan into a large roaster pan and pour enough water into the roaster to come up 1 inch around the pan.
Bake for 1 hour and 40 minutes. Turn off the oven and crack open the oven door. Let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an additional 20 minutes.
Remove the roaster pan and cheesecake from the oven. Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Prepare the Blueberry Topping:
In a 3 to 4-quart heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the frozen blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Heat over medium-high, stirring until the berries are thawed and the sugar is melted.
Once the mixture reaches a low boil, reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the blueberries. Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Once cooled, spread the blueberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Notes
Oven Temperature:
Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on the crust as baking times approach.
Room Temperature Cream Cheese:
Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
Blueberry Flour Coating:
Tossing blueberries in flour helps keep them suspended in the filling.
Freezing:
You can freeze the cheesecake in the springform pan, covered tightly with nonstick foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Slicing:
Slice the cheesecake while cold for cleaner cuts. Dip a knife in hot water, dry the blade, and then slice, cleaning and rewarming the knife after each cut.
Enjoy your creamy, delicious blueberry cheesecake!
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Crust
To achieve a perfectly baked graham cracker crust, make sure to mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of the springform pan to create a sturdy base.
Reducing Oven Temperature
After baking the crust, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) before baking the cheesecake filling. This lower temperature helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking and ensures an even bake.
Mixing the Filling
When mixing the cheesecake filling, use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth texture. Beat the cream cheese and sugars at medium-high speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until fully combined and creamy.
Coating Blueberries
Before folding blueberries into the cheesecake filling, toss them in flour. This technique helps to suspend the blueberries evenly throughout the filling, preventing them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Baking with a Water Bath
To bake the cheesecake, place the springform pan into a large roaster pan filled with water to create a water bath. This method ensures gentle, even heat and helps prevent cracking.
Cooling in the Oven
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. This gradual cooling process allows the cheesecake to set properly and minimizes the risk of cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
Preparing the Blueberry Topping
For the topping, combine frozen blueberries, sugar, and lemon zest in a saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat until the sugar dissolves and the berries are thawed. A low boil followed by simmering thickens the topping perfectly.
Equal Distribution of Topping
Once the blueberry topping is cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake. This presentation adds visual appeal and ensures each bite is filled with blueberry flavor.
FAQ
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen for the topping?
Yes, you can use fresh blueberries for the topping. However, since fresh blueberries have less moisture than frozen, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
If your cheesecake cracks, it’s often due to rapid temperature changes or overmixing. To prevent this, follow the cooling technique provided and avoid overmixing the filling once the eggs are added.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?
For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours or overnight before serving.
Can I freeze the blueberry cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What is the best way to slice the cheesecake?
To slice the cheesecake cleanly, dip a knife in hot water and dry the blade before cutting. This technique helps create cleaner slices, especially when serving chilled cheesecake.
Conclusion
This creamy blueberry cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the rich and velvety texture of cheesecake with the vibrant flavor of blueberries. Its layers of flavor and beautiful presentation make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether enjoyed for a special celebration or a cozy gathering, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
Classic Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
Enhance your cheesecake experience by swirling fresh strawberry puree into the filling before baking. The sweet and tangy strawberries beautifully contrast the creamy texture.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
Mix in edible cookie dough chunks into the cheesecake filling for a decadent twist. Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache to take it to the next level.
Lemon Basil Cheesecake
Incorporate fresh lemon juice and chopped basil into the filling for a refreshing and unique flavor. Serve with a lemon glaze on top for added brightness.
Peach Melba Cheesecake
Layer fresh peaches and raspberry sauce on top of your cheesecake for a delightful flavor combination that adds seasonal flair.
Nutty Caramel Cheesecake
Incorporate crushed nuts into the crust and drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a crunchy and luxurious treat.
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Add matcha powder to the cheesecake filling for an earthy flavor and beautiful green hue. Top with a thin layer of white chocolate ganache for a sweet finish.
