Cranberry Pecan Cheesecall
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
A delightful blend of creamy cheesecake with a tart cranberry topping and crunchy pecans, perfect for any occasion.
This Cranberry Pecan Cheesecall is a perfect festive dessert that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s easy to make, and it will impress your guests at any gathering!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich cheesecake flavor with a burst of tartness from cranberries
- Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
- Visually stunning and perfect for festive occasions
- Easy to make ahead of time
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this Cranberry Pecan Cheesecake is the ideal dessert. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout on any dessert table. The combination of creamy cheesecake, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds.
This cheesecake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a refreshing twist with the tartness of cranberries. The balance of flavors is perfect for those who enjoy desserts that are not overly sweet. Plus, the festive appearance makes it a great centerpiece for special occasions.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best aspects of this Cranberry Pecan Cheesecake is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while it chills in the refrigerator. This means less stress on the day of your event, giving you more time to focus on your guests and other preparations.
The cranberry topping can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just spread it over the cheesecake right before serving for a fresh and vibrant presentation. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy hosts who want to serve an impressive dessert without the last-minute rush.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake
Achieving the perfect cheesecake requires a few simple tips. First, ensure that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth and creamy filling without lumps. Additionally, mixing the ingredients gently will keep the texture light and airy, which is essential for a delicious cheesecake.
When baking your cheesecake, avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause it to crack. Instead, check for doneness through the oven window. Lastly, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating helps prevent cracks and maintains its beautiful appearance.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix all ingredients well and proceed to the steps below.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Bake the Cheesecake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the center is set. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Topping
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Stir in chopped pecans.
Serve
Spread the cranberry topping over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and serve on a platter. Enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheesecall!
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Pecan Cheesecake can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance the flavors further.
For a festive touch, garnish the cheesecake with additional cranberries and pecans before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also gives your guests a hint of the delicious flavors they can expect.
Storing Your Cheesecake
To store your Cranberry Pecan Cheesecake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers after a celebration.
If you wish to save it for a longer period, the cheesecake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking.
→ How long can I store the cheesecake?
You can store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
→ Is it possible to make this cheesecake vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese and a flaxseed egg substitute for the filling.
Cranberry Pecan Cheesecall
A delightful blend of creamy cheesecake with a tart cranberry topping and crunchy pecans, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cheesecake
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the center is set. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Stir in chopped pecans.
Spread the cranberry topping over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and serve on a platter. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g