Cherry-swirled Cheesecake

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake Recipe with Chocolate Cookie Crust

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherry pie filling. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for any day of the week.

History

The origins of Cherry-swirled Cheesecake are not entirely clear, but cheesecake itself has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient Greece. The combination of cherries and cheesecake is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed by dessert lovers for generations.

Ingredients

1.25 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
0.25 cup sugar
0.33 cup melted margarine or butter
1 can (21 oz (595 g)) cherry pie filling or topping
1 tsp grated orange peel
2 packages (8 oz (227 g)) softened cream cheese
1 can (14 oz (397 g)) Eagle ® Brand sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
3 eggs
0.33 cup lemon juice from concentrate
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C).
Combine the crumbs, sugar, and margarine; press firmly on the bottom of a 9-inch spring-form pan.
In a blender container, puree the pie filling until smooth; then add the orange peel.
In a mixer bowl, beat the cheese until fluffy.
Gradually beat in the Eagle ® Brand until smooth.
Add the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla; mix well.
Pour half of the batter into the pan; then top with 0.5 cup of puree.
Repeat the layering process.
Using a knife, swirl the puree into the cheese mixture.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the center is set. Allow it to cool, then chill.
Serve with the remaining puree.
Refrigerate any leftovers.

Variations

Try using different flavors of pie filling, such as blueberry or raspberry, for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake batter for a warm and spicy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter.

- Be sure to use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.

- Swirl the cherry puree gently into the cheesecake batter to create a beautiful marbled effect.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked open to prevent it from sinking in the center.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers in place of the crumbs in this recipe.

- If you don't have orange peel, you can substitute lemon or lime zest for a citrusy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the cheesecake with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake pairs well with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of hot coffee for a delightful end to any meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cherry-swirled Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cherry-swirled Cheesecake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cherry-swirled Cheesecake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cherry-swirled Cheesecake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cherry-swirled Cheesecake contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake contains dairy (cream cheese, evaporated milk, butter, eggs) and wheat (crumbs) allergens.

Summary

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins A and C.

Summary

Cherry-swirled Cheesecake is a decadent and delicious dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherry pie filling. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for any day of the week.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Cherry-swirled Cheesecake. It was a warm summer day, and I had invited my dear friend Martha over for afternoon tea. As we sat in my kitchen sipping on our cups of Earl Grey, Martha suddenly mentioned that she had a new recipe for me to try.

She reached into her purse and pulled out a worn and stained piece of paper. "This," she said with a smile, "is my grandmother's famous Cherry-swirled Cheesecake recipe. I thought you might like to give it a try."

I eagerly took the paper from her hands and scanned over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry swirls sounded absolutely delicious. I thanked Martha profusely and promised to make it for our next get-together.

That evening, I set to work in my kitchen, following Martha's grandmother's recipe to the letter. I whipped up the creamy cheesecake batter, poured it over the graham cracker crust, and carefully swirled in the cherry topping. As the cheesecake baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of cherries and vanilla filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the cheesecake was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. I sliced a generous piece for myself and Martha, and we both took our first bite. The creamy texture of the cheesecake, the tangy sweetness of the cherries, and the buttery crunch of the crust all melded together in perfect harmony. Martha's grandmother's recipe was a true masterpiece.

From that day on, Cherry-swirled Cheesecake became a regular feature at my tea parties and family gatherings. I shared the recipe with all my friends and relatives, and it quickly became a beloved favorite among them as well. I loved the way the cherries swirled through the creamy cheesecake, creating a beautiful marbled effect that never failed to impress.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to Martha's grandmother's original recipe, adding a touch of lemon zest to the cheesecake batter for a hint of brightness and substituting almond extract for vanilla for a more complex flavor profile. Each time I made the cheesecake, I thought of Martha and her grandmother, grateful for their generosity in sharing such a delicious recipe with me.

As I grew older, I began to pass down the recipe for Cherry-swirled Cheesecake to my own grandchildren. I taught them how to whip up the creamy batter, swirl in the cherry topping, and bake the cheesecake to perfection. It warmed my heart to see them enjoying the same dessert that had brought me so much joy over the years.

Now, whenever my grandchildren come to visit, they always request Cherry-swirled Cheesecake for dessert. We gather in the kitchen, aprons tied around our waists, and work together to create the perfect cheesecake. As we wait for it to bake, we sit around the table, sharing stories and laughter, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I am grateful to Martha and her grandmother for introducing me to this wonderful recipe. It has brought me closer to my loved ones, sparked countless conversations, and filled my home with the delicious scent of cherries and cream. I will always cherish the memories of making Cherry-swirled Cheesecake with my family and friends, passing down the recipe from generation to generation.