If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Easy Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, rich cream cheese mingles perfectly with sweet-tart raspberry swirls, all resting on a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. Whether you’re a cheesecake novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe offers a foolproof way to impress friends and family with something elegant yet simple. Perfectly balanced and bursting with fresh raspberry flavor, it’s truly a slice of happiness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating this dreamy cheesecake. From the buttery crust that provides that essential crunch to the silky smooth cream cheese filling, every element works together to create the perfect texture and flavor harmony.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base that adds texture and a touch of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to complement the tangy cream cheese.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together and adds richness.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, giving the cheesecake its creamy consistency.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling without overpowering the raspberries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and hold the filling together as it bakes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and a silky texture to the cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam or sauce (plus extra for topping): Brings vibrant color and that irresistible raspberry zing.
- Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and greasing a 9-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal later. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to create a sturdy crust that will hold up nicely against the creamy filling. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then set it aside to cool completely while you move on to the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is creamy and combined. The vanilla is subtle but essential—it enhances the sweet, creamy notes without stealing the spotlight from the raspberries.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Sour Cream
One at a time, incorporate the eggs into the cream cheese mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition. This slow addition helps keep the filling smooth and prevents cracking while baking. Finally, fold in the sour cream, which adds a slight tanginess and velvety texture to the cheesecake.
Step 4: Create the Raspberry Swirl
Pour half of the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust. Next, drop spoonfuls of raspberry jam evenly over the filling, then gently swirl it with a knife to create a pretty marbled effect. Repeat the process with the remaining filling and raspberry jam for a beautifully layered look and bursts of raspberry flavor throughout the cheesecake.
Step 5: Bake and Chill
Bake your cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight wobble. It should not be jiggly like liquid but also not completely firm. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor fusion.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Before serving, top your cheesecake with extra raspberry sauce and a handful of fresh raspberries to enhance that fresh fruity punch and add an elegant, colorful look. Your friends won’t believe how simple it was to create such a stunning and scrumptious dessert!
How to Serve Easy Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh raspberries, lemon zest, or a light dusting of powdered sugar are perfect garnishes that amplify the visual appeal and add fresh, zesty notes. You can also add a few mint leaves for a pop of green and an herbal contrast that pairs beautifully with berry flavors.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence. Alternatively, serving with a cup of rich coffee or a light fruit-based tea is a lovely way to balance out the sweetness and round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of warm chocolate or raspberry sauce on the plate. You can also layer smaller portions in clear glass jars with extra jam and fresh berries to wow guests at parties or potlucks. Presentation can turn a simple dessert into a memorable occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After serving, store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy texture stays perfect for up to 4 days, and the flavors continue to meld beautifully, making the next-day slice just as irresistible.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes really well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to keep it fresh, then freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the perfect creaminess and texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t typically recommended. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, allow the slice to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving, ensuring it softens without melting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the cheesecake’s texture. Raspberry jam works wonderfully to infuse that berry flavor, too.
What type of pan is best for baking this cheesecake?
A 9-inch springform pan is ideal because it allows you to easily remove the delicate cheesecake without damaging its shape. If you don’t have one, a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper can work with extra care.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This particular recipe relies on cream cheese and sour cream for texture and flavor, so it’s challenging to substitute directly. However, there are great vegan cream cheese options and sour cream alternatives that might work—just expect some variations in taste and texture.
Why does the cheesecake need to chill for several hours?
Chilling allows the filling to fully set and develop a luscious, firm yet creamy texture. It also helps the flavors meld together for the best possible taste experience.
Can I add other fruit toppings instead of raspberries?
Definitely! Blueberries, strawberries, or a mixed berry combination works wonderfully with this cheesecake base. Just substitute the raspberry jam with your preferred fruit preserve or fresh fruit compote.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe is truly one of those special treats that feels fancy but comes together with ease, making it perfect for any occasion. The balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet raspberry notes is simply irresistible. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and prepare for plenty of compliments and happy smiles at your table!
Print
Easy Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 28 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Raspberry Cheesecake recipe features a creamy, smooth cheesecake infused with luscious raspberry swirls and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to a delicate set, this dessert is chilled for hours to develop rich flavors and served with fresh raspberries for a refreshing finish. Ideal for celebrations or indulgent treats, it’s straightforward to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam or sauce (plus extra for topping)
Garnish
- Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened, then press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. After baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely to set before adding the filling.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and silky in texture.
- Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition to prevent overmixing. Gently stir in the sour cream to keep the batter smooth and rich.
- Layer and Swirl Filling with Raspberry Sauce: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spoon dollops of raspberry jam or sauce evenly on top, then create swirls using a knife or skewer. Carefully repeat this layering and swirling with the remaining filling and raspberry sauce.
- Bake Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on the middle rack and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully and enhance flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top the cheesecake with fresh raspberries and an additional drizzle of raspberry sauce for extra freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix the batter when adding eggs to prevent cracking during baking.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
- Use a water bath for baking if you want to minimize cracking (optional).
- Let the cheesecake come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
