Easy Blackberry Cheesecake
Introduction
This Easy Blackberry Cheesecake is a smooth, creamy dessert bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of blackberries. With its rich cream cheese filling, buttery graham cracker crust, and luscious blackberry topping, this cheesecake is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for any occasion, it delivers a taste of elegance with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Filling:
• 3 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
For the Blackberry Topping:
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
1. Cream the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
2. Add Vanilla and Eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Fold in Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
1. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
2. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Blackberry Topping
1. Cook the Blackberries: In a saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, and water. Simmer over medium heat until the berries release their juices.
2. Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the blackberry mixture and cook until thickened. Let it cool completely.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
1. Spread the cooled blackberry topping evenly over the cheesecake.
2. Garnish with fresh blackberries if desired.
History
Cheesecake is a dessert with roots dating back to ancient Greece, but its modern version gained popularity in New York in the early 1900s. Adding fruit toppings, like blackberries, became a way to enhance its flavor while showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Benefits
• Rich in Antioxidants: Blackberries are packed with antioxidants, which support overall health and may help combat inflammation.
• Good Source of Protein: Cream cheese and eggs provide high-quality protein.
• Calcium for Bone Health: Cheesecake contains dairy, which is a good source of calcium.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fats: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 24g
Formation
This cheesecake consists of three layers: a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling, and a vibrant blackberry topping. Its structure is firm yet delicate, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite.
Conclusion
The Easy Blackberry Cheesecake is a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, all wrapped up in a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Its simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, while its elegance makes it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion.
For Lovers of Cheesecake and Berries
This dessert is a dream come true for cheesecake lovers and berry enthusiasts alike. Its rich creaminess is perfectly complemented by the bright flavor of blackberries, making it a favorite for those who crave a luxurious yet refreshing dessert. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or savored solo, this cheesecake is pure indulgence.