Fruit Salad Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the crust ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into the pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
4. Bake the crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Add the sour cream: Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition.
5. Add lemon juice and zest: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest until well incorporated.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Chill: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Fruit Topping

1. Mix the fruits: In a large mixing bowl, combine the assorted fresh fruits.
2. Add lemon juice and honey: Drizzle the lemon juice and honey over the fruits and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Fruit Salad Cheesecake

1. Top the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is fully set, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter. Arrange the fruit salad evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice and serve: Slice the fruit salad cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices. Serve chilled.

Tips for Perfect Fruit Salad Cheesecake

1. Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
2. Chill thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator to achieve the perfect texture.
3. Fresh fruit: Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor and appearance.
4. Prevent cracks: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, avoid overmixing the batter and ensure gradual cooling.

Conclusion

Fruit Salad Cheesecake is a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and refreshing fruit salad. This recipe will guide you through creating a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this exquisite fruit salad cheesecake!