Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake

The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in rich, decadent desserts, and this Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake is a show-stopping treat that combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in one luscious bite. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the vibrant cranberry jam and airy white chocolate mousse, this dessert is designed to impress. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe to create a masterpiece that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why Cranberry Cheesecake is the Ultimate Holiday Dessert

When it comes to holiday desserts, cranberries steal the show with their vibrant color and tart flavor. Paired with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the elegance of white chocolate mousse, this dessert checks all the boxes. Plus, the layers of texture and flavor create a memorable treat that stands out on any dessert table.

Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake

Here’s what you’ll need to craft this irresistible dessert:

For the Cheesecake Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Jam:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• Zest of 1 orange

For the White Chocolate Mousse:

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1½ cups heavy cream, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Crust

The base of this cheesecake is a buttery, crumbly crust that complements the creamy filling.

• Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until the texture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer.
• Chill the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.

2. Create the Cheesecake Filling

Achieving a smooth, creamy filling is key to a perfect cheesecake.

• Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic flavor.
• Pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Baking the cheesecake slowly ensures a creamy texture without cracks.

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Bake the cheesecake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
• Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan before moving on to the next layer.

Making the Cranberry Jam

The cranberry jam adds a tangy-sweet punch that balances the richness of the cheesecake.

• Combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest in a saucepan.
• Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
• Allow the jam to cool to room temperature before spreading it over the cooled cheesecake.

Whipping Up the White Chocolate Mousse

Light and airy, the white chocolate mousse adds a touch of elegance to the dessert.

• Melt the white chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy cream in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
• In a separate bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream with vanilla extract and sugar until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled white chocolate mixture, creating a light mousse.

Assembling the Layers

Here’s where the magic happens—layering the cheesecake for a stunning presentation.

1. Spread the cooled cranberry jam evenly over the cheesecake layer.
2. Gently top with the white chocolate mousse, smoothing it out for a clean finish.

Chilling and Serving

The final step is patience!

• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets properly.
• Before serving, garnish with extra cranberries or white chocolate shavings for a festive touch.

Tips for the Perfect Festive Cheesecake

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smooth cheesecake batter.
2. Prevent Cracks: Bake your cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
3. Cool Gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the breakdown for one serving:

• Calories: 580
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 12

Why This Cheesecake Will Steal the Show

Not only is this dessert visually stunning, but it’s also a flavor bomb. The tangy cranberry jam cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, while the white chocolate mousse adds a delicate sweetness. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that is both festive and indulgent.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/grilled-parmesan-garlic-oysters/recipe.

Conclusion

This Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake is the perfect centerpiece for any holiday celebration. Its combination of textures and flavors will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to share, this cheesecake will make you the star of the evening.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to wow your family and friends with this unforgettable holiday treat. Enjoy every creamy, tangy, and sweet bite of this dessert that’s sure to become a holiday tradition. Happy baking!

Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake

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• Author: Mia Martinez
• Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes

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Description

Indulge in a rich, creamy Festive Cranberry Jam Cheesecake topped with tangy cranberry jam and white chocolate mousse, perfect for holidays!

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Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Crust:

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Jam:

2 cups fresh cranberries

½ cup sugar

½ cup water

Zest of 1 orange

For the White Chocolate Mousse:

1 cup white chocolate chips

1½ cups heavy cream, divided

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons sugar

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the cheesecake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Cranberry Jam:

In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Let it cool, then spread the jam over the cooled cheesecake.

Make the White Chocolate Mousse:

In a heatproof bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy cream over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with the vanilla extract and sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled white chocolate mixture until combined. Spread the mousse evenly over the cranberry layer.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until fully set before serving. Garnish with extra cranberries or white chocolate shavings if desired. Enjoy this festive dessert with your loved ones!

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12 servings
• Calories: 580 kcal