
Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
The Story & Intro
Summer always brings a flood of fresh fruit, and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than with a refreshing Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake. This dessert is an absolute showstopper! It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the vibrant, sweet flavors of ripe peaches and berries. My inspiration for this recipe came from those lazy summer afternoons when fresh peaches and berries were always within arm’s reach, and I thought, why not pair them with a decadent cheesecake filling? Whether it’s for a summer party or just a special treat for yourself, this cheesecake will take your taste buds on a sweet, fruity journey that’s perfect for the warm weather. Let’s dive into making this irresistible summer dessert!
The Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Summer Cheesecake
For the Cheesecake Crust
To create the perfect foundation for this cheesecake, you’ll need graham crackers. Their crumbly texture adds the ideal crunch, and their slightly sweet flavor complements the creamy filling. Combine them with melted butter to form a rich and buttery crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling
The cheesecake filling is the heart of this dessert. It’s made with a smooth blend of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. The combination of cream cheese and sugar creates a perfectly sweet and creamy base for your summer fruit toppings. To make it even richer, you can add a bit of sour cream, which will bring a nice tang to balance the sweetness.
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Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Description
A creamy, fruity Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake that combines rich cheesecake with fresh, sweet fruit toppings, perfect for summer desserts.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
For the filling:
3 packages (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
For the topping:
1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 ripe peach, sliced
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. 3. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
4. 4. Beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla.
5. 5. Add eggs one at a time, then pour mixture over the cooled crust.
6. 6. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50 minutes, then cool.
7. 7. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. 8. Arrange fresh berries and peach slices on top before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Make ahead and top with fruit just before serving.
How to Make the Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Preparing the Crust
Start by crushing the graham crackers into fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until it’s golden and fragrant. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
For the cheesecake filling, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour this creamy mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 50 minutes until the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely and then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Topping Your Cheesecake with Fresh Summer Fruits
Preparing the Fruit Toppings
For the topping, fresh summer berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, combined with juicy slices of ripe peaches, create a beautiful and colorful addition to the cheesecake. You can either arrange the fruit on top directly or make a fruit compote by gently simmering the berries and peaches with a little sugar to release their juices.
Assembling the Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake is chilled, spread the fresh or cooked fruit topping over the surface. The vibrant colors of the fruit against the creamy white cheesecake are not only beautiful but also bring a refreshing burst of flavor to every bite.
Serving and Storing Your Summer Cheesecake
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesecake as the star of any summer gathering, alongside a chilled glass of lemonade or a sparkling drink. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a birthday celebration, or a barbecue. The creamy texture and fresh fruit will have everyone coming back for more.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cheesecake in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the cheesecake a day or two in advance and add the fruit topping right before serving.
FAQ:
1. Can I use frozen fruit for the topping?
Yes! Frozen berries work well for the topping. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture on the cheesecake.
2. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular round cake pan. Just be sure to line the pan with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cheesecake once it’s set.
3. How long does the cheesecake need to cool?
After baking, let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. Then chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.