Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake

Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with every bite. It combines a creamy cheesecake base with the bright, juicy flavors of seasonal berries and peaches, making it the perfect treat for warm-weather gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is incredibly refreshing and light, thanks to the natural sweetness of the fruits. It’s visually stunning, making it an excellent centerpiece for any party or family meal. Plus, the combination of the creamy cheesecake with the tart berries and sweet peaches creates a balanced flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Eggs
• Fresh strawberries
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh raspberries
• Fresh peaches
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch
• Water

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until blended.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
6. Bake for about 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour.
7. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
8. For the topping, toss the fresh berries and peach slices with lemon juice. Mix cornstarch and water to create a glaze and gently fold it with the fruits.
9. Top the chilled cheesecake with the fruit mixture right before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Cooling and chilling time: 5-6 hours (including overnight chilling)

Variations

• Swap out the graham cracker crust for a vanilla wafer or shortbread crust for a sweeter touch.
• Use mascarpone cheese in place of some of the cream cheese for an even richer texture.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate over the fruit topping for extra indulgence.
• Try different seasonal fruits such as nectarines, blackberries, or cherries.
• Add a hint of almond extract to the cheesecake batter for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without the fruit topping) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Use a water bath during baking and avoid overmixing the batter to minimize air bubbles.

Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s actually best made a day in advance to allow proper chilling.

What type of peaches should I use?

Freestone peaches are ideal because they are easier to pit and slice.

Can I add a layer of jam under the fruit topping?

Yes, a thin layer of peach or berry jam can add extra flavor and help the fruit stick.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the topping?

Cornstarch helps the fruit topping hold together better, but you can skip it if you prefer a more natural look.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set and the center should still have a slight wobble.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but low-fat can be used with slightly different results.

How can I make the crust gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust base.

Conclusion

Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert to celebrate the bright, beautiful flavors of the season. Its creamy texture combined with the juicy, vibrant fruits makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether for a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a special family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

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