1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it tightly.
- Bake: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add White Chocolate: Gently fold in the melted white chocolate until fully combined.
- Add Sour Cream: Fold in the sour cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and just slightly jiggly. The edges should be slightly puffed and starting to turn golden.
- Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
4. Prepare the Blueberry Sauce:
- Cook Blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the blueberries release their juices and the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the blueberry sauce. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the blueberry sauce cool to room temperature.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Top Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate.
- Add Blueberry Sauce: Spread the cooled blueberry sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing some to drizzle down the sides.
- Garnish: Garnish with white chocolate shavings, fresh blueberries, and mint leaves if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve your elegant white chocolate blueberry cheesecake, enjoying the delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Alternative Crust: Try using crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different crust flavor.
- Blueberry Alternatives: Substitute blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a different berry twist.
Enjoy the exquisite taste of this Elegant White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake, a dessert that will surely impress and delight anyone who takes a bite!