Introduction

Christmas cheesecake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the festive season. This rich and creamy cheesecake combines traditional flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Whether served at gatherings or during intimate family gatherings, this dessert brings joy and satisfaction to all who indulge in it.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Cream Cheese – 24 oz (three 8 oz packages), softened
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
Sour Cream – 1 cup
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Eggs – 3 large
Graham Cracker Crumbs – 1.5 cups
Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup, melted
Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
Red and Green Sprinkles – for decoration

Prep Time

Preparation for this delectable cheesecake requires about 20 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients and preparing the crust.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the cheesecake is approximately 1 hour. Allowing for an additional cooling period, the total time from start to finish is about 2 hours, with a yield of 10-12 servings, making it a suitable choice for holiday festivities.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Base

– Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F).
– Crush the digestive biscuits (or graham crackers) until they are fine crumbs.
– Combine the crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
– Press the mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan to form an even layer.
– Bake the base in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and set aside to cool.

Mix the Cheesecake Filling

– In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
– Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
– Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice, followed by the sour cream, until it is smooth.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid over-beating.

Add the Cranberry Topping

– In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water.
– Cook until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let it cool, then strain if desired for a smoother texture.

Combine the Components

– Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled biscuit base in the springform pan.
– Smooth the top with a spatula and gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Bake the Cheesecake

– Place the springform pan in the oven and bake at 160°C (320°F) for approximately 50-60 minutes.
– The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
– Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour to cool gradually.

Chill and Serve

– Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
– Chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for best results.
– Before serving, top the cheesecake with the cranberry sauce and any additional garnishes like whipped cream or mint leaves.

Notes

Ingredient Tips

– Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
– You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if preferred.

Storage Suggestions

– Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4-5 days.
– The cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Suggestions

– Pair the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkling of crushed nuts for added texture.
– Garnish with fresh cranberries or mint leaves for a festive touch.

Cook techniques

Preparing the crust

To create a delicious cheesecake crust, crush digestive biscuits or graham crackers and mix them with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and bake until lightly golden to achieve a crunchy texture.

Making the cheesecake filling

For a smooth cheesecake filling, ensure all ingredients, including cream cheese, sugar, and sour cream, are at room temperature. Blend them together until creamy, and avoid overmixing to prevent incorporating too much air.

Baking the cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to help maintain even temperature and prevent cracking. This method involves placing the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water during baking.

Cooling and setting

After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes. Then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.

Decorating

Top the cooled cheesecake with your choice of festive decorations, such as whipped cream, seasonal fruits, or a drizzle of chocolate for an added touch.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of biscuit for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute digestive biscuits or graham crackers with other types of cookies, like Oreos or vanilla wafers, based on your taste preference.

How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize the risk of cracking, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, avoid overmixing, and cool it gradually.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Is it possible to freeze leftover cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I do if my cheesecake is too runny?

If your cheesecake comes out runny, it may not have been baked long enough or had insufficient thickening agents. Make sure to follow the recommended baking times and ensure your ingredients are fresh and appropriately measured.

Conclusion

The Christmas Cheesecake is a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the festive flavors of gingerbread and spices makes it a perfect treat for the season. Whether served as a centerpiece dessert or enjoyed in small slices, it is sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Gingerbread Cookies

Pair your cheesecake with classic gingerbread cookies for a delightful texture contrast and added holiday flavor.

Pecan Pie

Serve a slice of pecan pie alongside your cheesecake for a twist on traditional desserts, bringing nutty sweetness to the table.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Create a festive dessert platter by including chocolate peppermint bark, balancing rich chocolate with refreshing mint.

Cranberry Sauce

A tart cranberry sauce can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake, enhancing its festive appeal.

Eggnog

Complement your cheesecake with a glass of creamy eggnog, adding a classic holiday beverage to your dessert experience.