Blackberry Cheesecake Recipe
This luscious Blackberry Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese filling swirled with fresh blackberry purée, and a sweet-tart blackberry topping. Baked in a water bath for a silky texture, this dessert is perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in a decadent treat with the vibrant flavors of fresh blackberries.
- Author: Ria
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup blackberry purée (blended blackberries, strained)
For the Blackberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, then bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is well combined. Gently fold in the blackberry purée, creating a beautiful swirled effect without overmixing.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a larger baking pan and pour hot water into the outer pan to create a water bath. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour to cool gradually.
- Prepare the Blackberry Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Assemble & Serve: Once the cheesecake has fully cooled, spread the blackberry topping evenly over the surface. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set. Just before serving, garnish with fresh blackberries and enjoy your rich, fruity dessert.
Notes
- Using a water bath while baking prevents cracks and ensures a creamy texture.
- Make sure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- For a more intense blackberry flavor, strain seeds from the purée before folding it into the batter.
- If you don’t have fresh blackberries, frozen can be used; thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
- The cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Allow the cornstarch topping mixture to cool completely before spreading to prevent melting the cheesecake surface.
Keywords: blackberry cheesecake, cream cheese dessert, berry cheesecake, graham cracker crust, baked cheesecake, blackberry topping