Cranberry Orange Cheesecake: Decadent Delight for Your Taste Buds

I remember the first time I made a cranberry orange cheesecake. The vibrant colors and the tangy-sweet flavors caught my attention immediately. The combination of cranberries and oranges seemed like a perfect way to bring a splash of color and flavor to a cheesecake, a dessert I’ve always loved for its creamy texture and versatility.

Cranberry orange cheesecake quickly became a favorite in our home. It’s a dessert that feels special, yet it’s simple enough to make any day. The blend of tart cranberries and fresh orange zest adds a refreshing twist to the classic cheesecake, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, crafting this cranberry orange cheesecake allowed me to explore flavors in a new way. The process of transforming these ingredients into a delicious masterpiece is as rewarding as the final taste, making it a cherished recipe in my collection.

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Mastery

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 cheesecake 1x

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty oranges with our decadent Cranberry Orange Cheesecake recipe. Learn how to create this irresistible dessert today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (180g)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil, melted (76g)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (680g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (100g)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8g)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (120ml)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (6g)
• 1 cup sour cream (240ml)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, for garnish (25g)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest, for garnish (6g)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
5. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
6. Add 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cream cheese.
7. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully combined.
8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
9. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup cranberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and cornstarch.
10. Add orange juice and 1 tablespoon orange zest to the saucepan.
11. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
12. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
13. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set.
14. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
15. In a bowl, mix sour cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
16. Spread the sour cream mixture over the cooled cheesecake.
17. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
18. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh cranberries and 1 tablespoon orange zest before serving.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is properly softened for a smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
• Adjust sweetness of cranberry topping to taste by adding more sugar if desired.
• Cool cheesecake completely before adding sour cream topping to avoid melting.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 5g

Keywords: cranberry orange, cheesecake recipe, holiday dessert, creamy texture, baked dessert, festive treat

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great cheesecake lies in its crust and filling. For this cranberry orange cheesecake, I start with a graham cracker crust. Mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted vegetable oil and sugar creates a sweet and crunchy base that complements the creamy filling. Baking the crust for a brief 10 minutes ensures it is perfectly set and ready to hold the luscious cream cheese layer.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into the preparation, gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready before you start ensures a smooth cooking process. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C), which is the optimal temperature for baking cheesecake. Prepare your springform pan by pressing the graham cracker mixture evenly across the bottom to create a firm crust. Let it cool after baking to form a solid foundation for the cream cheese mixture.

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Techniques

Technique

The key to a smooth and creamy cheesecake lies in the mixing. Begin by beating softened cream cheese until it is free of lumps. Gradually incorporate sugar and vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Adding eggs one at a time ensures that the mixture stays creamy and does not curdle. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust to create a rich and velvety layer.

Tips/tricks

To elevate the cranberry orange cheesecake, focus on the cranberry topping. Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, cornstarch, orange juice, and zest until the cranberries burst, releasing their vibrant color and flavor. This topping not only adds a beautiful hue but also balances the sweetness of the cheesecake with a hint of tartness. For a smooth finish, remember to leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar after baking to prevent cracks.

Perfecting Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect cranberry orange cheesecake involves patience. After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to avoid cracks. Once cooled, spread a mixture of sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract over the top. This layer adds a creamy contrast to the tangy cranberry topping, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you encounter issues like cracks or uneven textures, don’t worry. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to prevent these common problems. For a different twist, consider exploring other flavors or toppings. You might find inspiration in No Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups, where unexpected ingredients create delightful variations.

Serving Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

Serving/presentation

Presentation is key when serving cranberry orange cheesecake. Garnish with fresh cranberries and orange zest for a pop of color. These simple additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add hints of flavor that complement the cheesecake perfectly. The bright colors of the cranberries and zest against the creamy cheesecake create a stunning dessert that is sure to impress.

Pairings/storage

For a complete dessert experience, consider pairing the cheesecake with a light herbal tea or a refreshing citrus drink. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor. Proper storage ensures the cheesecake retains its creamy texture and vibrant taste for a few days, allowing you to savor every bite.

Conclusion

Cranberry orange cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors. Its foundation of a perfectly baked crust and a smooth cream cheese filling creates a rich and satisfying dessert. By mastering the techniques and tips shared here, you can create a show-stopping cheesecake that’s perfect for any occasion.

The utility of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re making it for a special gathering or a cozy night in, cranberry orange cheesecake is sure to impress. Its unique combination of tart cranberries and sweet cream cheese offers a refreshing twist on a classic dessert, making it a must-try for any cheesecake lover.

FAQs – Cranberry Orange Cheesecake