This Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake is a tasty treat filled with fresh flavors! Its creamy cheese base paired with juicy peaches and colorful berries makes it super delightful.
Every bite feels like a sunny day! I love serving it at picnics or gatherings—it never lasts long! Plus, making it is easy! Just blend, pour, and chill. Yum! 🍑🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These provide a classic cheesecake crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, try digestive biscuits, or even crushed cookies like Oreos for a fun twist!
Cream cheese: Look for full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative, but it may change the richness slightly.
Heavy whipping cream: This adds lightness and richness to the filling. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can use whipped topping, but the texture will be different.
Fresh fruit: Use whatever berries are in season for the topping—strawberries, blueberries, or even cherries can work beautifully. If fresh fruit isn’t available, frozen fruit can also be used; just ensure to thaw and drain them well.
Berry syrup: This enhances the flavor of the fruit. You can make your own by simmering berries with sugar and water or simply use store-bought syrup. Honey or maple syrup can also be a nice alternative.
How Do You Get Smooth, Creamy Cheesecake Filling?
Getting a creamy and smooth filling is all about how you mix the ingredients. Start with softened cream cheese—this is key. Cold cream cheese will create lumps, so let it sit out for 30 minutes before mixing.
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy before adding the sugar and vanilla. This adds air and helps it blend better.
- When folding in the whipped cream, do it gently. Use a spatula and lift the mixture rather than stirring aggressively to keep that airy texture.
How to Make Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For The Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For The Fruit Topping:
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 2 peaches, sliced
- ½ cup berry syrup (store-bought or homemade)
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheesecake will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours in the fridge to set, ideally overnight. So, it’s great to make ahead of time for your summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until everything is well combined. Now, take this crumbly mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a nice, even crust. Once you’re done, pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Assembling the Cheesecake:
Take your chilled crust out of the fridge and pour the cream cheese filling over it. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Now, gently press the blackberries and raspberries into the filling, saving a few for decoration later. Cover the cheesecake and put it back in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until it’s nicely set.
4. Adding the Toppings:
Once your cheesecake is set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Drizzle the berry syrup over the top, then arrange the sliced peaches and the reserved blackberries and raspberries on the cheesecake. If you’d like, you can add dollops of whipped cream and sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra touch!
5. Serving:
Now, slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve it chilled. Enjoy those refreshing flavors of summer berries and peaches! Your guests will love it!
Enjoy your delightful Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake!
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Topping?
Absolutely! While this recipe features blackberries, raspberries, and peaches, feel free to substitute with your favorite summer fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a unique twist!
What If My Cream Cheese Isn’t Softened?
No worries! If your cream cheese is still cold, you can cut it into small cubes and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to soften it. Just be careful not to melt it; you want it soft but still creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make it last longer, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. There are several brands available that work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to check the labels!
