The Tangy Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Adore

A dreamy cherry lemon cheesecake that dances between tangy and sweet promises incredible flavor adventures.

The creamy dessert whispers decadent secrets with every elegant slice.

Bright citrus notes complement rich cream cheese in surprising ways.

Cutting through silky layers revealing vibrant ruby-red cherries nestled against golden graham crust.

Exotic yet familiar, this recipe feels like a delightful culinary surprise waiting to happen.

Soft textures and bold flavor combinations transform an ordinary dessert into something magical.

You’ll want to make this showstopping treat that guarantees gasps of appreciation from everyone around the table.

Why Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe Feels Fresh And Bright

• Burst of Seasonal Freshness: This cherry lemon cheesecake combines tangy citrus notes with sweet cherry goodness, creating a vibrant dessert that celebrates bright summer flavors.
• Foolproof Baking Experience: The recipe offers simple steps with clear instructions, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, from novice to experienced home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dessert: Creamy cheesecake texture paired with zesty lemon and rich cherry topping ensures a delightful treat that appeals to different taste preferences at gatherings and family events.
• Make-Ahead Magic: The cheesecake can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight, providing convenience for busy hosts and allowing flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Ingredients For Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base that provides a sweet, crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps hold the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden texture.

• Cream Cheese: Smooth, rich base that gives the cheesecake its classic creamy texture. Full-fat cream cheese works best.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly. Room temperature eggs blend more easily.
• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bright, citrusy flavor that adds freshness and complexity to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with its warm, sweet notes.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the cheesecake filling.

• Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet and fruity topping that complements the lemon cheesecake. Canned or homemade works well.
• Lemon Zest (Optional): Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and extra citrus aroma.

How To Make Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe Step By Step

Step 1: Create the Crunchy Base

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly into the pan, creating a solid foundation. Pop it in the oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Sugar

• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream

Blend until everything is perfectly combined and velvety.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest inside for an hour – this helps prevent unsightly cracks.

Step 4: Chill and Rest

Carefully remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely at room temperature. Cover and tuck it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and the texture become wonderfully smooth.

Step 5: Add the Fruity Finale

Once chilled, generously spread cherry pie filling across the top of the cheesecake. For an extra pop of brightness, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully release the springform pan, slice into beautiful wedges, and serve this tantalizing dessert to your eager guests. Each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors!

Tips For Smooth Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

• Prevent Crust Crumbling: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, compact base that won't fall apart when slicing.
• Avoid Cheesecake Cracks: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or let it cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to minimize surface cracking.
• Enhance Lemon Flavor: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a brighter, more vibrant citrus taste that complements the rich cream cheese base.
• Customize Topping Options: Swap cherry pie filling with fresh cherry compote or mixed berry sauce for a homemade, fresher alternative to canned topping.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising texture.

How To Store Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe Without Losing Texture

• Refrigerate: Place leftover cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent flavor absorption.
• Cover Carefully: Protect the cherry topping by placing a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container. This prevents the topping from sticking or getting damaged.
• Freeze Option: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat Gently: Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture tough and compromise the creamy consistency.

Perfect Matches For Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

• Pair with Zesty White Wine: Complement the tangy lemon cheesecake with a crisp sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, which will enhance the citrusy notes and cut through the creamy richness.
• Serve Alongside Fresh Berries: Add a vibrant side of mixed fresh berries like raspberries and blueberries to provide a natural, sweet contrast to the creamy cheesecake texture.
• Match with Sparkling Beverage: Elevate the dessert experience with a light champagne or prosecco, creating a refreshing and celebratory balance with the cherry and lemon flavors.
• Create a Coffee Companion: Brew a smooth, medium-roast coffee or a delicate espresso to complement the sweet and tangy cheesecake, offering a perfect ending to the dessert.

Tasty Twists On Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

• Berry Medley Cheesecake: Swap cherry pie filling with a vibrant mix of fresh raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful and tangy topping that adds natural sweetness and elegant presentation.
• Lavender Lemon Fusion: Infuse the cheesecake batter with dried lavender buds and replace lemon zest with lavender extract, creating a sophisticated and aromatic dessert that balances floral and citrus notes.
• Nutty Crunch Upgrade: Enhance the graham cracker crust by adding chopped almonds or pistachios, providing extra texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake filling.
• Chocolate Cherry Remix: Incorporate dark chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter and drizzle melted chocolate over the cherry topping, transforming the classic recipe into a decadent and rich dessert experience.

FAQs About Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

• Why did my cheesecake crack?

Most cheesecakes crack due to overbaking or sudden temperature changes. To prevent this, bake at the right temperature, avoid overmixing, and let the cheesecake cool gradually by leaving it in the oven with the door cracked open after baking.

• Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can! Simply cook fresh pitted cherries with sugar and a little cornstarch to create a homemade topping. This will give your cheesecake a more natural and fresh flavor compared to canned pie filling.

• How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. It should wobble like jelly when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can lead to a dry, cracked surface, so watch it carefully during the last few minutes of baking.

• Is it necessary to use a water bath for this cheesecake?

While this recipe doesn’t call for a water bath, using one can help create an even, creamy texture and prevent cracking. If you want extra insurance against cracks, you can place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking.

Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Indulgent cherry lemon cheesecake brings zesty citrus notes dancing with smooth, creamy cheesecake richness. Sweet-tart cherries crown this elegant dessert, promising pure delight when dessert lovers savor each luxurious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 (21 ounces / 595 grams) can cherry pie filling
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Optional: Additional lemon zest for garnish

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Instructions

1. Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing graham crackers with sugar and melted butter, pressing the mixture into a springform pan’s base. Toast the crust briefly in a preheated 325F oven until golden, creating a crisp, sturdy platform for the creamy filling.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, whip cream cheese until silky, gradually incorporating sugar for a luxurious texture. Gently fold in eggs, ensuring each integration is smooth and homogeneous. Infuse the mixture with bright citrus notes through freshly squeezed lemon juice and delicate zest, complemented by vanilla’s warmth and sour cream’s tangy richness.
3. Cascade the velvety filling over the cooled crust, distributing it evenly with a gentle touch. Slide the pan into the oven, allowing the cheesecake to bake until edges firm up and the center maintains a subtle tremor, indicating perfect custard-like consistency.
4. After baking, transition the cheesecake to a gradual cooling process by leaving it inside the oven with the door slightly ajar. This technique prevents unsightly surface cracks and promotes even temperature reduction.
5. Once completely cooled to room temperature, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator. Allow it to rest and set for several hours, ideally overnight, developing deeper flavor complexity.
6. Before serving, lavish the chilled cheesecake with a generous layer of ruby-red cherry pie filling. Optionally, scatter additional lemon zest across the surface for a vibrant, aromatic finishing touch.
7. Carefully release the springform’s clasp, slice into elegant portions, and present this decadent dessert that harmonizes tart cherries, zesty lemon, and creamy cheesecake.

Notes

• Select high-quality cream cheese at room temperature for smoother, lump-free mixing and better texture.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor that complements the sweet cherries.
• Prevent cheesecake cracks by baking in a water bath and cooling gradually inside the oven with the door slightly open to reduce temperature shock.
• Swap graham cracker crust with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 36 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg