This Easy Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is the perfect treat for warm days! With fresh berries and juicy peaches on a creamy cheesecake base, it’s a colorful delight.
I love how refreshing it tastes! Just mix, chill, and serve—no baking needed. It’s great for summer parties, and let’s be honest, you’ll be the star of the picnic! 🍑🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the delicious base of your cheesecake. If you don’t have graham crackers, try digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.
Cream Cheese: The star ingredient! For a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still gives a creamy texture. Vegan cream cheese is also a good alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
Fresh Berries and Peaches: Summer fruits are the best! Feel free to substitute with other seasonal fruits like cherries, mangoes, or even mixed frozen fruits if fresh ones aren’t available. Just ensure they’re thawed and patted dry before using.
How Do I Get a Smooth and Creamy Cheesecake Filling?
To ensure your cheesecake filling is perfectly smooth, pay attention to how you combine your ingredients. Start by softening the cream cheese fully; this makes it easier to blend.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese until really smooth before adding sugar.
- When incorporating the heavy cream, do it gently. Fold it in slowly with a spatula to keep the airiness.
- Make sure your bowl for whipping the cream is cold; this helps it whip up to stiff peaks more easily.
Easy Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For The Topping:
- 2 cups mixed fresh summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheesecake takes approximately 30 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to chill and set in the refrigerator. It’s simple to make and perfect for summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Take your time to ensure the crumbs are evenly coated. Next, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a solid crust. Once done, place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Making the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the 2/3 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is fully blended and well combined. This step is crucial for a creamy texture!
3. Whipping the Heavy Cream:
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using a mixer until firm peaks form. This whipped cream will give your cheesecake a light and airy feel.
4. Combining Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and mix carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy. It should be well combined and smooth without deflating the whipped cream.
5. Assembling the Cheesecake:
Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust and use a spatula to smooth out the top. Now it’s time to place the cheesecake in the refrigerator! Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight to allow it to set properly.
6. Adding Toppings:
Once the cheesecake has set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Now, it’s time to decorate! Arrange the fresh berries and sliced peaches evenly on top of the cheesecake for a beautiful presentation.
7. Final Touch:
If you want to add a little extra sweetness and prettiness, dust the cheesecake with powdered sugar before serving.
8. Serving:
Slice the cheesecake, serve it chilled, and enjoy your delicious and refreshing summer dessert with friends and family!
This recipe is a breeze and sure to impress your guests with its fresh flavors! Enjoy!🍑🍓
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can use any combination of seasonal fruits you prefer, such as cherries, mangoes, or even kiwi. Just ensure the fruits are ripe for the best flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cheesecake?
Leftover cheesecake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or a combination of almond flour and sugar for the crust. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What Should I Do If My Cheesecake Doesn’t Set Properly?
If you find that your cheesecake hasn’t set properly, it’s often due to not allowing it enough time to chill. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. If it still seems soft, a brief time in the freezer (around 30 minutes) can help firm it up before serving.
