Creamy, decadent, and topped with a luscious cherry compote, this Cherry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that will steal the spotlight at any gathering. The rich cream cheese filling, buttery graham cracker crust, and sweet-tart cherry topping come together to create a dessert that’s truly irresistible.
This recipe is perfect for cheesecake lovers who want that classic New York-style creaminess paired with the bright flavors of cherries. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual dessert, this Cherry Cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The filling is velvety smooth, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang.
- Perfect Crust: A buttery graham cracker crust adds a delicious crunch to every bite.
- Bright Cherry Topping: The homemade cherry topping gives a vibrant, fruity contrast to the rich cheesecake.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra stability)
For the Cherry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Cooling rack
- Mixing bowls