This delightful cheesecake is perfect for summer! It features a creamy filling packed with fresh berries and peaches, sitting on a sweet crust that makes it irresistible.
I love serving this cheesecake on hot days, as it’s light and fruity. Plus, it’s a hit at gatherings—everyone keeps coming back for another slice. Who can blame them? 🍑🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These create a sweet and crunchy base for the cheesecake. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use ground almonds for an alternative crust.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake, cream cheese makes it rich and creamy. A lower-fat cream cheese could work, but the texture and flavor may change a bit.
Sour cream: This adds tang and creaminess. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used in its place, giving a similar taste.
Fresh fruit: Feel free to change up the berries and peaches. Cherries, raspberries, or even mango could be delicious substitutes depending on what’s in season!
How Do I Get the Cheesecake to Set Perfectly?
Setting your cheesecake just right is key to a delicious outcome. Follow these useful tips:
- After mixing the batter, pour it over the cooled crust carefully to avoid bubbles.
- When baking, keep an eye on the edges. They should be set, while the center can still be a little wobbly.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking. This helps prevent cracks.
- Chill it for several hours, or overnight, to ensure it firms up nicely before serving.
Refreshing Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Fruit Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheesecake requires about 30 minutes of prep time and then around 1 hour for baking. It needs at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge, so plan on making it ahead for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or nonstick spray. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to create an even crust. Pop the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes is perfect. Gradually mix in the sugar and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Now, add the eggs one at a time, making sure you mix well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until your batter is silky smooth.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula to make it nice and even. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle to it. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to cool gradually—this helps prevent cracking.
4. Chill and Prepare the Fruit Topping:
After the cheesecake has cooled, take it out of the oven and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait that long! While it chills, prepare the fruit topping by tossing together the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and peaches in a bowl with the sugar and lemon juice. Allow the fruit to sit for about 30 minutes so it can soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Serve Your Cheesecake:
When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Spoon the macerated summer berries and peaches evenly over the top of the cheesecake. For a touch of freshness, you can garnish it with mint leaves if you like. Slice, serve, and enjoy your refreshing summer berry and peach cheesecake!
FAQ for Refreshing Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Can I Use Different Fruit for the Topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits. Cherries, raspberries, or even tropical fruits like mango or pineapple can create a delicious twist on this cheesecake. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit!
How Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?
To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs. Just check the labels to ensure they’re gluten-free!
What Should I Do if My Cheesecake Cracks?
No worries if your cheesecake cracks; it can still taste amazing! To minimize cracks, bake it gently and avoid overmixing. If it happens, you can cover it with the fruit topping for a beautiful presentation!
Can I Make This Cheesecake in Advance?
Yes, you can! This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and wait to add the fruit topping until you’re ready to serve to keep the fruit fresh.
