Imagine a dessert that's as light and airy as a cloud, but with a sweet and tangy taste of peaches and cream. The Peaches and Cream Cheesecake is exactly that - a heavenly delight that's perfect for summer. With a smooth and creamy texture, thanks to the cream cheese and heavy cream, this cheesecake is full of peach flavor from the peach puree. A shortbread cookie crust adds a slightly crunchy contrast to the soft filling.
Photos of Peaches ‘N’ Cream Cheesecake Recipe
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common household staples, there are a couple that you might not have on hand. You'll need to pick up shortbread cookies for the crust and prosecco for the gelatin. Prosecco is a type of Italian white wine that's usually used for making cocktails or as an aperitif. You can find it in the wine section of your local supermarket. If you can't get prosecco, any sweet white wine or champagne can be used as a substitute.
Ingredients for Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
Shortbread cookie: This will be used to make the crust. Shortbread cookies have a rich buttery flavor which pairs well with the creamy cheesecake.
Butter: Used to bind the cookie crumbs for the crust and provides a rich flavor.
Peaches: These will be pureed and added to the cream cheese filling, providing a fresh, fruity flavor.
Gelatin: This helps to stabilize the cheesecake and gives it a firm texture.
Cream cheese: The key ingredient that gives cheesecakes their creamy, tangy flavor.
Sugar: This will sweeten the cheesecake.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
Lemon juice: Adds a bit of tang to balance the sweetness.
Heavy cream: Makes the cheesecake rich and creamy.
Orange food coloring: Optional ingredient to enhance the color of the peach layer, making it look more appealing.
Hot water: Used to dissolve the gelatin.
Prosecco: This will be mixed with gelatin to create a sparkling jelly top layer.
One reader, Griselda Beckman says:
This peaches and cream cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the creamy cheesecake and the sweet, juicy peaches is simply divine. The recipe was easy to follow, and the end result was a showstopper. I received so many compliments on this dessert. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
How to prepare the crust: Crush the shortbread cookies in a food processor and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and freeze.
How to prepare the peach puree: Blend quartered peaches in a food processor until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
How to bloom gelatin: Combine gelatin with cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes until the water is mostly absorbed, then microwave for 20-30 seconds until the gelatin is melted.
How to make prosecco gelatin: Combine gelatin with hot water and sugar, then slowly pour into prosecco and stir to combine. Let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly, then skim off any foam that rises to the top.
How to arrange the sliced peaches: Starting from the outside and working inward, arrange the sliced peaches over the peach cheesecake layer in a circular pattern with the curved sides facing out, overlapping slightly.
How to release the springform: Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan, then release the springform and remove the parchment before slicing and serving.
How To Make Peaches ‘N’ Cream Cheesecake
The traditional combination of peaches and cream is now in cheesecake form! Enjoy this peaches ‘n’ cream cheesecake made with a shortbread cookie crust.
Serves:
Ingredients
- nonstick cooking spray,for greasing
For Crust:
- 10ozshortbread cookie
- 6tbspunsalted butter,melted
For Filling:
- 2yellow ripe peaches,quartered, plus 4 to 5 thinly sliced
- 4packsgelatin,divided
- 1cupcold water,divided
- 32ozcream cheese,softened
- 1¼cupssugar,plus ⅔ cups, divided
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 1tsplemon juice
- ½cupheavy cream
- 2dropsorange food coloring,optional
- ⅔cuphot water
- 1cupprosecco
Instructions
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Grease and line the sides of a 9-inch round springform pan with parchment paper.
Crust:
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Add the shortbread cookies to a food processor. Pulse until finely crushed. Add the melted butter and pulse until combined.
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Transfer the cookie crumb mixture to the springform pan. Use a spatula or measuring cup to press the cookie crumbs down to form an even base. Freeze for 10 minutes.
Filling:
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Add 2 to 3 quartered peaches to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
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In a small bowl, combine ½ cup cold water and 2 packets of gelatin. Let the gelatin bloom for 5 minutes, until the water is mostly absorbed. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or until the gelatin is melted.
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1¼ cups of sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice together with an electric hand mixer until combined.
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Add the heavy cream and melted gelatin and beat for another 2 to 3 minutes, until well combined and fluffy.
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Spread half the cheesecake mixture over the chilled cookie crust. Freeze for 10 minutes.
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Mix 1 cup of the strained peach puree and orange food coloring, if desired, into the remaining cheesecake mixture. Carefully pour the mixture over the first layer of cheesecake. Spread evenly and freeze for another 10 minutes.
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In a small bowl, combine the remaining cold water with the remaining gelatin. Let the gelatin bloom for 5 minutes, until the water is mostly absorbed. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or until the gelatin is melted.
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Combine the gelatin mixture, hot water, and the remaining sugar and whisk to dissolve the sugar.
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Slowly pour into the prosecco and stir to combine. Let sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Set aside.
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Starting from the outside and working inward, arrange the sliced peaches over the peach cheesecake layer in a circular pattern with the curved sides facing out. Begin with the larger slices, overlapping slightly, and continue until the entire surface is filled.
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Spoon half of the prosecco gelatin over the peaches. Carefully transfer to the refrigerator and let sit for 30 minutes.
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Pour the remaining prosecco gelatin over the peaches up to the rim of the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
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Release the springform and remove the parchment, then slice and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 604.17kcal
- Fat: 43.91g
- Saturated Fat: 22.59g
- Trans Fat: 0.40g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.15g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.09g
- Carbohydrates: 42.89g
- Fiber: 0.69g
- Sugar: 31.00g
- Protein: 8.27g
- Cholesterol: 112.01mg
- Sodium: 372.75mg
- Calcium: 91.15mg
- Potassium: 198.42mg
- Iron: 1.15mg
- Vitamin A: 370.10µg
- Vitamin C: 1.91mg
Crucial Technique Tip for a Flawless Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
When preparing the peach puree, ensure to strain it thoroughly to remove any pulp or chunks. This will ensure a smoother and creamier texture for your cheesecake. Also, when arranging the peach slices on top of the cheesecake, take your time to create a beautiful and appetizing design. Remember, we eat with our eyes first!
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cheesecake Recipe
Prepare the crust: Use store-bought shortbread cookies for a quick and easy crust.
Chill the cheesecake: Speed up the chilling process by placing the cheesecake in the freezer for shorter intervals.
Substitute Ingredients For Peaches ‘N’ Cream Cheesecake Recipe
shortbread cookie - Substitute with graham cracker crumbs: Graham cracker crumbs can provide a similar crumbly texture and slightly sweet flavor to the crust.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the crust.
yellow ripe peaches - Substitute with mangoes: Mangoes have a similar sweet and juicy flavor, and they can provide a tropical twist to the cheesecake.
gelatin - Substitute with agar agar: Agar agar is a plant-based alternative to gelatin and can be used in a 1:1 ratio to set the cheesecake filling.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free alternative while still providing a creamy texture.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the cheesecake filling.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a rich and creamy texture while adding a subtle coconut flavor to the filling.
prosecco - Substitute with sparkling apple cider: Sparkling apple cider can add a similar effervescence and hint of sweetness to the recipe.
Presentation Tips for a Stunning Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
Elevate the cheesecake base: Create a delicate and precise shortbread cookie crust that provides a sturdy foundation for the luscious layers of the cheesecake.
Artfully arrange the peach slices: Carefully place the sliced peaches in a visually stunning pattern on top of the cheesecake, ensuring each slice is perfectly positioned for an elegant presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the cheesecake with delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as rose petals or lavender, to enhance the visual appeal and add a subtle floral aroma.
Drizzle with prosecco gelatin: Create an exquisite finishing touch by delicately drizzling the prosecco gelatin over the peach slices, adding a shimmering and luxurious glaze to the dessert.
Serve on chilled dessert plates: Present the peaches and cream cheesecake on chilled dessert plates to maintain the optimal temperature and enhance the overall dining experience.
Accompany with a peach puree: Serve a side of the strained peach puree in a small sauceboat or ramekin to provide an additional burst of peach flavor and a decorative element to the plate.
Add a dusting of gold leaf: For a touch of opulence, delicately apply edible gold leaf to the edges of the dessert plates, adding a luxurious and extravagant element to the presentation.
Incorporate a prosecco foam: Create a light and airy prosecco foam to accompany the cheesecake, adding a delightful textural contrast and a sophisticated element to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making a Perfect Cheesecake
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make pie crusts, puree fruits, and blend cheesecake fillings.
- 9-inch round springform pan: This type of pan is designed with a removable bottom and a latch on the side, making it ideal for baking cheesecakes and other delicate desserts that need to be removed without damaging their structure.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick baking paper that is used to line pans and trays, preventing food from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Spatula: A spatula is a kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for mixing, spreading, and turning ingredients. It is essential for pressing down the cookie crust in the springform pan.
- Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to accurately measure liquid or dry ingredients for recipes, ensuring precise and consistent results.
- Electric hand mixer: An electric hand mixer is a handheld kitchen appliance used to blend, whip, and mix ingredients, such as cream cheese and sugar, to create a smooth and fluffy cheesecake filling.
- Fine-mesh sieve: A fine-mesh sieve is a kitchen tool used to strain and separate solids from liquids, such as when creating a smooth peach puree for the cheesecake filling.
- Microwave: A microwave is a kitchen appliance used to quickly and efficiently melt ingredients, such as gelatin, for use in recipes.
- Small bowl: Small bowls are used for various purposes in the kitchen, such as blooming gelatin, combining ingredients, and preparing smaller portions of mixtures.
- Large bowl: Large bowls are used for mixing and combining larger quantities of ingredients, such as cream cheese, sugar, and flavorings for the cheesecake filling.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and stirring ingredients together, such as when combining gelatin, hot water, and sugar to create a smooth mixture for the prosecco gelatin layer.
- Refrigerator: The refrigerator is used to chill and set the cheesecake, allowing the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
- Knife: A knife is used for slicing and arranging the peaches on top of the cheesecake, creating a decorative pattern.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing and preparing the fresh peaches for the cheesecake topping.
Storing and Freezing Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
To store the peaches and cream cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake will taste best if consumed within the first 3 days.
If you want to freeze the cheesecake, it's best to do so before adding the peach topping. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator and then add the peach topping before serving.
If you have already added the peach topping and want to freeze the cheesecake, place it uncovered in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the topping is firm. Then, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before returning it to the freezer. This will help prevent the topping from sticking to the wrap and getting damaged.
When storing or freezing the cheesecake, make sure it is placed on a flat surface in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain its shape and prevent any damage to the delicate layers.
If you have any leftover peach topping, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can use it as a topping for other desserts or even as a fruit spread on toast.
Interesting Fact About Peaches and Cream Cheesecake
The cheesecake is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic games in 776 BC. The recipe was simple, consisting of cheese, wheat, and honey.
Is Making Peaches and Cream Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this peaches and cream cheesecake recipe largely depends on the availability and price of the ingredients. Peaches and cream cheese can be relatively affordable, while prosecco and gelatin may be pricier. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30. Considering the luxurious nature of some ingredients, the cost may be slightly higher. Overall Verdict: 7/10. While it offers a delightful and indulgent dessert experience, the cost of some ingredients may not make it the most budget-friendly option for regular consumption.
Is This Cheesecake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This peaches and cream cheesecake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content from the cookies, sugar, and peaches
- Significant amount of saturated fat from the cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream
- Gelatin, which is not a nutrient-dense ingredient
- Prosecco, adding extra calories and sugar
However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as fresh peaches, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and replace some of it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
- Use a whole-grain cookie for the crust or replace it with a nut-based crust for added protein and healthy fats
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese and replace some of it with Greek yogurt for a protein boost
- Decrease the amount of butter in the crust and replace some of it with coconut oil
- Use a sugar-free gelatin alternative or agar-agar for a plant-based option
- Replace the prosecco with a low-sugar, non-alcoholic sparkling beverage or simply use more fresh peach puree for flavor
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutrient-dense dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to indulge in a slice of the original recipe occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Recipe
The combination of the sweet peaches, creamy cheesecake, and prosecco gelatin creates a delightful and sophisticated dessert. The use of fresh peaches and prosecco adds a refreshing and elegant touch to the classic cheesecake. The layering technique and the addition of orange food coloring make for a visually stunning presentation. The recipe's balance of flavors and textures is well thought out, resulting in a dessert that is both delicious and visually appealing. Overall, this peaches and cream cheesecake recipe is a creative and impressive dessert that would be a showstopper at any gathering.
Enhance Your Peaches ‘N’ Cream Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Peaches ‘N’ Cream Cheesecake Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh peaches and creamy cheesecake, creating a luscious and indulgent dessert. The use of real peach puree and prosecco adds a burst of natural flavor, while the incorporation of gelatin ensures a smooth and velvety texture. The careful layering of the cheesecake mixture and peach-infused filling, along with the decorative arrangement of fresh peach slices, showcases attention to detail and a visually appealing presentation. With a balance of sweet and tangy notes, this recipe promises a delightful and refreshing treat for any occasion.
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