This Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is a burst of fruity goodness! With a creamy filling and a sweet graham cracker crust, it’s perfect for warm days.
The best part? You can use any berries you love! I always let the kids help with the fruit—it’s like a fun art project in the kitchen! 🍑🍓
Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are great for a classic cheesecake crust. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free graham crackers or crushed nuts instead for a similar texture.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese can be a good substitute. It has less fat but still gives a creamy texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds richness to the filling. If you want a lighter cheesecake, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess to the cheesecake. Greek yogurt is a great substitute, offering similar creaminess and tang while also being a bit healthier.
Fresh Fruit: Blackberries, raspberries, and peaches create a beautiful topping. Feel free to swap these for strawberries, blueberries, or any seasonal fruit you prefer!
How Can I Make My Cheesecake Filling Smooth and Creamy?
A key to a smooth cheesecake filling is to ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps them combine better without lumps.
- Beat the softened cream cheese first before adding sugar. This helps break it up.
- Add sugar slowly, mixing well to create a creamy base.
- When adding heavy cream and sour cream, beat on medium speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a luscious filling that sets beautifully!
How to Make Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1 large peach, thinly sliced
- ½ cup whipped cream (for decorating)
- ÂĽ cup almond slivers (for garnish)
- Berry sauce (for drizzle, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheesecake will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours chilling time (overnight is even better!). In total, you’re looking at about 4.5 hours or more to get this refreshing dessert ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until everything is well combined. It should look like wet sand. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Once it’s pressed down, set it aside while you make the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the vanilla extract, heavy whipping cream, sour cream, and lemon juice. Keep mixing for about 3-4 minutes until the filling is thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Pour the cheesecake filling over your prepared crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so it looks nice and even. Cover the springform pan with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. If you have the time, letting it chill overnight is ideal for the best texture!
4. Prepare the Topping:
After your cheesecake has set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Now for the fun part! Arrange blackberries, raspberries, and peach slices on top of the cheesecake. Add some dollops of whipped cream around the edges and sprinkle with almond slivers for an extra crunch.
5. Serve:
If you like, drizzle some berry sauce on top for a sweet touch. Slice the cheesecake into pieces, serve, and enjoy your lovely summer dessert!
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal fruits. Strawberries, blueberries, or even kiwi would work great. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on what you choose to maintain the visual appeal!
How Should I Store Leftover Cheesecake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To keep the crust from getting soggy, it’s best to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to serve. Just reassemble the toppings when you’re ready to enjoy another slice!
Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?
How Do I Know When the Cheesecake Is Set?
Your cheesecake is set when it feels firm yet has a slight jiggle in the center. If it wobbles too much, give it more time in the fridge. It’s best to let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling will yield the best results.
