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Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Recipe

5.1 from 16 reviews

This rich and creamy Cranberry Orange Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth orange-infused cream cheese filling, topped with a tangy homemade cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you want a bright, festive dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar

For the Cheesecake:

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust and then allow it to cool completely.
  2. Make the Cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a well-incorporated batter. Stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  3. Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
  4. Make the Cranberry Topping: While the cheesecake cools, prepare the topping by combining cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a chunky sauce. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  5. Cool and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set. Before serving, gently spread the cooled cranberry topping evenly over the cheesecake. Slice and enjoy a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Let ingredients come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • The gradual cooling step in the oven helps prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface.
  • The cranberry topping can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
  • Use fresh or frozen cranberries interchangeably; just thaw frozen ones before cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry orange cheesecake, holiday cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, fruit topping cheesecake, festive dessert