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Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Recipe

4.8 from 9 reviews

A silky, citrusy cranberry orange cheesecake featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy orange-infused filling, and a vibrant homemade cranberry topping. This festive dessert offers the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, ideal for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tbsp melted butter

Filling

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cranberry Topping

  • 1½ cups cranberries
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation. Fold in the sour cream, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing gently until just combined.
  3. Assemble and Bake Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the warm crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
  4. Chill the Cheesecake: Cover the cooled cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure it sets firmly and develops the best flavor and texture.
  5. Prepare Cranberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the cranberry topping cool completely.
  6. Serve: Once the cranberry topping has cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice into 12 servings, and enjoy this festive, tangy treat.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
  • Orange zest and juice add fresh citrus brightness; do not substitute with artificial flavorings.
  • Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances flavor and texture.
  • Leftover cranberry topping can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • For a firmer crust, you can chill it before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cheesecake, orange cheesecake, holiday dessert, creamy cheesecake, cranberry topping, citrus dessert