Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

The Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it an ideal dessert for the holiday season or any special occasion. The tangy cream cheese base, combined with the brightness of orange zest and the burst of fresh cranberries, creates a refreshing and indulgent treat. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup cranberries
• Zest of 1 orange

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
5. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest, folding them gently into the cheesecake mixture.
6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set with a slight jiggle when you shake the pan.
8. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 55-60 minutes
• Total time: 5 hours (including cooling and refrigerating)

Variations

• Cranberry Sauce: Top the cheesecake with a fresh homemade cranberry sauce or compote for an added burst of flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cranberries and orange zest.
• Nuts: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the crust for added texture.
• Lemon Zest: Substitute lemon zest for orange zest for a slightly different citrus twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: This cheesecake is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, this cheesecake needs to be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, and it can be made a day or two in advance for convenience.
2. Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
3. Can I make a gluten-free version of this cheesecake? Yes, you can substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or use a gluten-free cookie crust instead.
4. How can I make the crust more flavorful? You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the crust for extra flavor.
5. Can I use a different citrus fruit? Yes, you can substitute the orange zest with lemon zest or even lime zest for a different citrusy twist.
6. What if I don’t have a springform pan? If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular round cake pan lined with parchment paper, though it may be more challenging to remove the cheesecake.
7. Can I top the cheesecake with something else? Yes, you can top the cheesecake with whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
8. Can I add more cranberries? Yes, you can add extra cranberries for a more pronounced cranberry flavor. Just be sure the mixture doesn’t become too runny.
9. Can I make this cheesecake without eggs? If you want to make an egg-free version, try using a suitable egg substitute like flax eggs or a store-bought egg replacer.
10. How do I know when the cheesecake is done? The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, and the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy brightness of orange, all set in a creamy cheesecake base. It’s a refreshing and festive treat that will be a standout at any holiday celebration. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite for any special occasion.

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