Creamy Baked Cheese Cake
Creamy Baked Cheese Cake offers a rich, smooth texture with a luscious cherry topping. Its sweet and tangy flavor combination makes it perfect for special occasions or as a delightful dessert for family gatherings. The crust provides a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted margarine. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch spring-form pan to form the crust.
- In a mixer bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy.
- Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add eggs and ReaLemon from concentrate, then mix well.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the center is set.
- Remove from oven and spread sour cream on top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool, then cover with chilled cherry pie filling.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies. Adjust the sweetness by using less sweetened condensed milk or adding a bit of lemon zest for a fresh twist. This cheesecake can also be topped with fresh fruit or served with a drizzle of caramel for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, topped with cherry pie filling for a classic touch. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful contrast, serve alongside a refreshing drink like Moon Breaks Pink Lemonade Pie. This makes for an ideal dessert at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's best enjoyed chilled, but you can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If you prefer it slightly warmed, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Baked Cheese Cake contains roughly 516 calories, with 9g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it's well covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese for a different flavor and texture, or even a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for a lighter version. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness as needed, since some alternatives can be less sweet.
Is it possible to make a different topping?
Certainly! While this recipe features cherry pie filling, you can use other toppings like fresh berries, caramel sauce, or chocolate ganache. Each topping can give a unique twist, so feel free to experiment with flavors that you love!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).