A stunning dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges.
Prep Time30 minutesmins
Cook Time1 hourhr
Total Time1 hourhr30 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 8servings
Equipment
Springform Pan
Mixing Bowl
Saucepan
Electric Mixer
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
1.5cupsGraham Cracker Crumbs
0.5cupUnsalted Butter, melted
1pinchSalt
Filling Ingredients
16ouncesCream Cheese, softened
1cupGranulated Sugar
1cupSour Cream
3largeEggsAt room temperature
1tablespoonVanilla Bean Paste
Topping Ingredients
2cupsCranberriesFresh or frozen
2mediumFresh Oranges, zest and juice
0.5cupGranulated SugarFor topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
Incorporate the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and orange zest into the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well blended.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
Prepare the cranberry-orange topping by cooking cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cranberry topping evenly over the top.
Garnish with additional orange zest or fresh cranberries if desired. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
Slice the cheesecake using a sharp knife and serve chilled.
Notes
This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.