Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe

The Very Berry Cheesecake is an exquisite dessert combining the smooth creaminess of cheesecake with the tart sweetness of fresh berries. This recipe takes the traditional cheesecake and elevates it with the addition of cherry brandy and a topping of fresh blackberries, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions or a fancy treat for a night in.

Photos of Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe

This recipe includes some ingredients that may not typically be found in your pantry. Cherry brandy, for instance, is used to add a hint of flavor to the cream cheese mixture as well as to the berry topping. If you don't have it on hand, you can find it in the liquor section of most supermarkets. Fresh blackberries are another important ingredient for this recipe. They're usually available in the produce section, but if they're out of season, you can use frozen blackberries as a substitute.

Ingredients for Very Berry Cheesecake

Vanilla wafers: These sweet, vanilla-flavored cookies form the crust of the cheesecake.

Butter: Butter is used to bind the crust and add richness to the cheesecake.

Cream cheese: The main ingredient of any cheesecake, it provides the creamy, tangy flavor.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to the cheesecake.

All-purpose flour: This helps to thicken the cheesecake mixture.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.

Cottage cheese: Blended until smooth, this adds a different texture and flavor to the cheesecake.

Cherry brandy: Adds a hint of cherry flavor to the cheesecake and the berry topping.

Eggs: These hold the cheesecake mixture together.

Fresh blackberries: Used both in the cheesecake and as a topping, they add a tart sweetness.

One reader, Bree Noel says:

This very berry cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of blackberries and cherry brandy adds a delightful twist to the classic cheesecake. The texture is smooth, and the flavors are perfectly balanced. It's a showstopper dessert that always impresses!

Bree Noel

Mastering the Techniques for a Flawless Cheesecake

Prepare the crust: Combine vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom and 1¾-inch up the sides of an 8-inch springform pan. Set aside.

Prepare the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese, sugar, flour, and vanilla until smooth. Then, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and stir it into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cherry brandy and beat in the eggs on low speed just until combined.

Bake the cheesecake: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Pour half of the cheese mixture into the crust-lined pan, then spread 1 cup of the blackberries on top. Add the remaining cheese mixture and top with ½ cup of the blackberries. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the center appears nearly set when shaken.

Cool and chill the cheesecake: Cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then loosen the sides. Cool completely on a wire rack, cover, and chill for at least 4 hours, or until ready to serve.

Prepare the fruit topping: In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of blackberries, 1 tablespoon of cherry brandy, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cover and chill for up to 2 hours.

Serve the cheesecake: Cut the cheesecake into wedges and top each serving with the fruit topping.

How To Make Very Berry Cheesecake

The best way to end a hard day is with a slice of this delightfully creamy berry cheesecake that’s filled with the fresh taste of berries and cream cheese!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Chill Time: 4 hours

Total: 5 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

40vanilla wafers,crushed
6tbspbutter,melted
8ozcream cheese,(2 packages) softened
¾cupwhite sugar,plus an additional 1 tbsp
2tbspall-purpose flour
2tspvanilla extract
1cupcottage cheese,creamed
¼cupcherry brandy,plus an additional 1 tbsp
3eggs
3½cupsfresh blackberries

Instructions

In a medium bowl, stir together vanilla wafer crumbs and butter.
Press the mixture into the bottom and 1¾-inch up the sides of an 8-inch springform pan. Set aside.
In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese, ¾ cup of sugar, flour, and vanilla.
Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Set aside.
Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
Stir into the cream cheese mixture. Stir in the ¼ cup of cherry brandy. Beat in the eggs on low speed just till combined. Do not incorporate too much air into the batter.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Pour half of the cheese mixture into the crust-lined pan. Spread 1 cup of the fruit on top.
Top with the remaining cheese mixture and ½ cup of the fruit. Place in a shallow baking pan in the preheated oven.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the center appears nearly set when shaken.
Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then loosen the sides.
Cool completely on wire rack.
Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, or until ready to serve.
For the topping, in a medium bowl combine remaining 2 cups fruit, 1 tablespoon of cherry brandy, and 1 tablespoon sugar.
Cover and chill for up to 2 hours.
To serve, cut the cheesecake into wedges. Top each serving with fruit topping.

Nutrition

Calories: 396.90kcal
Fat: 21.79g
Saturated Fat: 10.74g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.59g
Carbohydrates: 39.98g
Fiber: 3.19g
Sugar: 18.92g
Protein: 7.43g
Cholesterol: 95.08mg
Sodium: 258.19mg
Calcium: 71.26mg
Potassium: 185.20mg
Iron: 1.26mg
Vitamin A: 175.79µg
Vitamin C: 10.58mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Ideal Cheesecake Texture

When preparing the cheesecake, it's crucial not to overbeat the eggs. Overbeating can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up during baking and then collapse, creating cracks. To avoid this, beat the eggs on low speed just until they're combined into the batter. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients can help achieve a smoother, lump-free batter.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Very Berry Cheesecake

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment before starting to make the cheesecake. This will help streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Use pre-made crust: To save time, consider using a pre-made graham cracker or cookie crust instead of making the crust from scratch. This can significantly cut down on prep time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work through the recipe. This will help you work more efficiently and reduce the time spent searching for tools or ingredients.

Chill the cheesecake: After the cheesecake is baked, allow it to cool and set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to develop and the texture to set properly.

Prep the fruit in advance: Wash and prepare the berries ahead of time, so they are ready to use when assembling the cheesecake. This can save time during the final stages of the recipe.

Use a food processor: Consider using a food processor to quickly blend the cottage cheese and achieve a smooth consistency, saving time and effort compared to manual blending.

Plan ahead: Read through the entire recipe before starting and plan out the steps in your mind. This will help you anticipate the next actions and work more efficiently.

Substitute Ingredients For Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe

vanilla wafers - Substitute with graham crackers: Graham crackers can provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the cheesecake filling.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe to achieve a similar binding and moisture-retaining effect.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy texture similar to cream cheese, while also adding a slight tartness to the cheesecake.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and can add a unique flavor profile to the cheesecake.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor to the crust.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a similar depth of flavor and aroma to the cheesecake filling.
cottage cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can offer a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to the cheesecake filling.
cherry brandy - Substitute with cherry juice: Cherry juice can provide a non-alcoholic alternative with a similar fruity flavor to enhance the blackberry topping.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cheesecake, serving as an egg replacement.
fresh blackberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can be used as a substitute for blackberries, offering a similar tartness and vibrant color to the cheesecake topping.

Impress Your Guests With This Stunning Presentation

Elevate the plating: When presenting the very berry cheesecake, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a combination of fresh blackberries and mint leaves to add color and vibrancy to the dish. The contrast of the deep purple berries against the creamy cheesecake will create a visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a cherry brandy reduction around the edge of the plate to add a touch of elegance and flavor. This will not only enhance the overall presentation but also add a sophisticated touch to the dish.
Utilize edible flowers: Garnish the plate with delicate and edible flowers to add a touch of whimsy and elegance. Choose flowers that complement the flavors of the cheesecake, such as lavender or rose petals, to add a subtle floral note to the presentation.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the fresh berries in a symmetrical pattern on top of the cheesecake to create a visually appealing and balanced presentation. This will showcase the natural beauty of the berries and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to create a beautiful and professional finish. This simple touch will add a hint of sweetness and elegance to the presentation of the very berry cheesecake.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake

Medium bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
8-inch springform pan: A type of cake pan with removable sides, often used for making cheesecakes.
Large bowl: A bowl used for mixing larger quantities of ingredients.
Electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Blender or food processor: Used for blending and pureeing ingredients to a smooth consistency.
Wire rack: A rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
Shallow baking pan: A pan used for baking and roasting, typically with low sides.

Preserving Freshness: Storing and Freezing Cheesecake

Let the cheesecake cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This will take about 2-3 hours.
Wrap the entire cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, making sure no air pockets remain. For extra protection against freezer burn, wrap the plastic-covered cheesecake in a layer of aluminum foil.
If storing in the refrigerator, place the wrapped cheesecake in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
For freezing, place the wrapped cheesecake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and contents. The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To thaw, transfer the frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature, as this can cause the cheesecake to become soggy and affect its texture.
Once thawed, remove the wrapping and let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly.
If you have topped the cheesecake with the berry mixture, it's best to add this topping after thawing and just before serving for the best appearance and texture.

Surprising Fact About the Origins of Cheesecake

The Very Berry Cheesecake recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tartness of fresh blackberries. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and can be customized with different types of berries for variety. Cheesecake has been enjoyed for centuries and is believed to have originated in ancient Greece. The addition of cherry brandy in this recipe adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional cheesecake. Enjoying a slice of this delicious dessert is a delightful way to indulge in the sweetness of fresh berries.

Is Making Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this very berry cheesecake recipe largely depends on the availability and price of the ingredients. Cream cheese, eggs, and fresh blackberries can be quite pricey, impacting the overall cost. However, the delightful flavors and the impressive presentation make it a worthwhile investment for special occasions. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost: $25-$30 for a household of 4 people.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This very berry cheesecake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat due to the cream cheese, butter, and eggs
Significant amount of added sugar from the white sugar and vanilla wafers
Refined carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour and vanilla wafers
Alcohol content from the cherry brandy, which adds empty calories

However, the recipe does include a generous portion of fresh blackberries, which provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help offset some of the less healthy ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or silken tofu to reduce the saturated fat content
Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of white sugar to decrease the added sugar
Opt for whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a more nutrient-dense base
Replace the vanilla wafer crust with a nut-based crust (e.g., almonds or walnuts) for added protein and healthy fats
Reduce or omit the cherry brandy to lower the alcohol and calorie content
Incorporate a variety of fresh berries for added fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants

Editor's Take: Why This Cheesecake Recipe Stands Out

The very berry cheesecake recipe is a delightful combination of creamy and fruity flavors. The use of fresh blackberries adds a burst of tangy sweetness, complementing the rich cream cheese and cottage cheese filling. The addition of cherry brandy lends a subtle, sophisticated note to the dessert. The vanilla wafer crust provides a delightful crunch, balancing the smooth texture of the cheesecake. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection, drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Sweet dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked until golden and caramelized.

Mango Salsa: A refreshing and vibrant salsa made with ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime juice for a burst of tropical flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Rich and creamy risotto made with arborio rice, sautéed mushrooms, and a touch of white wine for a luxurious and comforting side dish.

Berry Salad with Citrus Dressing: A colorful and refreshing salad featuring a mix of fresh berries, tossed in a zesty citrus dressing for a burst of tangy sweetness.

Delicious Alternatives to Very Berry Cheesecake

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer a vegetarian option or a meat-filled version, these savory stuffed bell peppers are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Citrus Glazed Salmon: This citrus glazed salmon recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The tangy citrus marinade pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery salmon, creating a dish that is both healthy and delicious.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The tropical flavors of mango and coconut combined with the nutritious chia seeds make for a satisfying and guilt-free treat.

Appetizer and Main Course Combinations for Your Berry Cheesecake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and delicious Caprese skewers. Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves are threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a refreshing and elegant starter.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please any palate.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, where tender strips of beef are stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables and aromatic seasonings. The dish is both hearty and healthy, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

Why trust this Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful combination of vanilla wafers, cream cheese, and fresh blackberries, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The incorporation of cherry brandy adds a unique depth of flavor, elevating the overall taste experience. The meticulous layering of the cheesecake with fruit topping showcases attention to detail, promising a visually appealing and delicious dessert. With a thoughtful blend of textures and flavors, this recipe is a testament to the culinary expertise and passion for creating delightful desserts.

Share your thoughts on the Very Berry Cheesecake Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your creation turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of fruit for this cheesecake?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of fruit for this cheesecake. Feel free to experiment with your favorite berries or even a combination of fruits to create your own unique flavor profile.

Can I substitute the cherry brandy with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use cherry brandy, you can substitute it with another flavored liqueur or even fruit juice for a non-alcoholic option. Just choose a flavor that complements the berries in the cheesecake.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cheesecake ahead of time. In fact, it's best to prepare it ahead and allow it to chill for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the texture to set properly.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

While you can freeze the cheesecake, it's best to add the fruit topping after thawing as the texture of the fruit may change when frozen. Make sure to wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to maintain its freshness.

How long will the fruit topping last?

The fruit topping can be prepared ahead and chilled for up to 2 hours. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to add the topping to the cheesecake just before serving.