Description
Experience the rich and creamy delight of Cherry Pecan Cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a luscious topping of juicy cherries and crunchy pecans. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Topping
- 2 cups cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature once the cheesecake is assembled.
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the cheesecake base.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream to create a rich, velvety filling.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- Add cherries and pecans: Scatter the pitted, halved cherries and chopped pecans evenly over the top of the filling for a burst of flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly for a creamy consistency.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Use a springform pan to easily release the cheesecake after baking.
- For best results, let the cheesecake chill overnight to enhance flavors and texture.
- Fresh cherries can be substituted with frozen ones (thawed and drained) if out of season.
- If desired, toast the pecans lightly for added depth of flavor before adding.
