There’s something utterly magical about a Christmas Cheesecake, especially one layered with the bright zing of cranberry jam and the decadence of white chocolate mousse. Imagine slicing into a creamy masterpiece, your fork gliding through luscious layers while the sweet-tart cranberry dances playfully on your palate. The aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make even Santa pause his sleigh for a taste. For more inspiration, check out this no-bake mini cheesecakes recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen cranberries for the jam?
- How long does this cheesecake need to set?
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, our family gatherings were always infused with laughter, love, and a whole lot of delicious food. This cheesecake became my secret weapon at holiday dinners, evoking oohs and ahhs from everyone lucky enough to have a slice. perfect cranberry dessert bars It’s the perfect dessert to impress your guests or simply indulge in during those cozy winter nights by the fire. gingerbread pudding cake recipe. For more inspiration, check out this raspberry cheesecake bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Christmas Cheesecake is simple enough for even novice bakers to master
- Its flavor blend of cranberry and white chocolate is delightfully festive without being overwhelming
- This dessert is visually stunning, making it the centerpiece of any holiday table
- You can serve this festive treat at parties or enjoy it as a special family dessert
I remember one Christmas when my cousin took one bite and declared it “better than all the presents combined.” That’s a win in my book!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for an even base that holds together beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind the crust for optimal texture.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for that luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar balances out the tartness of cranberries perfectly.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy depth that enhances the cheesecake’s overall flavor profile.
- White Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chocolate chips for a smooth and decadent mousse layer.
- Fresh Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen cranberries; they provide vibrant color and tartness.
- Gelatin Powder: This helps set the mousse layer to perfection without being too firm.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up flavors and cuts through sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to your cheesecake filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before adding any filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar while mixing until fully incorporated.
Add Sour Cream and Vanilla: Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is creamy and well-blended. Scrape down the sides of your bowl to ensure no lumps remain.
Make White Chocolate Mousse Layer: Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Allow to cool slightly before folding it into whipped cream for fluffiness.
Add Cranberry Jam Layer: Spread cranberry jam over the cooled cheesecake filling evenly before adding white chocolate mousse on top. Chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
This Christmas Cheesecake is not just any dessert; it’s an experience! The tartness of cranberries contrasts beautifully with sweet white chocolate, creating an indulgent flavor symphony that sings joy throughout your festive gatherings. festive pretzel hugs cookies Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse is a holiday showstopper
- The blend of tart cranberry and rich white chocolate creates a festive flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the cranberry jam, allowing it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake base. This sequence ensures the flavors meld beautifully and saves time in the kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for raspberries or use dark chocolate mousse instead of white chocolate. Personalizing the recipe adds your unique flair and makes it truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best taste, enjoy it cold without reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter; this prevents lumps and makes mixing effortless
- Always chill your cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture, as it enhances the overall experience
- Lastly, don’t skip the cranberry jam—it truly elevates this delightful dessert!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first attempt at baking a cheesecake during the holidays. I was nervous but ended up receiving compliments from family that warmed my heart—making it a cherished tradition ever since! salted caramel apple cheesecake.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for the jam?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly for this recipe; just thaw them before cooking.
How long does this cheesecake need to set?
Chill your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for best results.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to five days, perfect for holiday prep.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive delight of this Christmas Cheesecake, featuring a velvety white chocolate mousse layered with tangy cranberry jam. This showstopper dessert is not just visually stunning but also a delicious balance of sweet and tart flavors that will make your holiday gatherings unforgettable. Perfect for impressing guests or simply savoring during cozy winter nights, every slice promises to evoke joy and celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press into the bottom of a springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown, then cool.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in sour cream and vanilla until creamy.
- Melt white chocolate chips and fold into whipped cream for a mousse layer.
- Spread cranberry jam over the cheesecake filling, top with white chocolate mousse, and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
