Description
This luscious Berry Cream Cheese Cake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and fluffy cream cheese filling, and a vibrant topping of mixed berries cooked to perfection. Chilled to set, this no-bake style dessert combines creamy texture with refreshing fruitiness, making it an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Filling
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
Berry Topping
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create a firm, even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until it turns golden and is slightly firm to the touch. Remove and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps, about 3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, indicating it can hold shape when lifted.
- Fold the Cream into Cream Cheese: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy, being careful not to deflate the cream.
- Assemble Filling: Pour the cream cheese filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly with a spatula for a clean finish.
- Prepare the Berry Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release their natural juices.
- Cool the Berry Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the berry topping to cool to room temperature to avoid melting the filling.
- Top the Cake: Once cooled, spoon the berry mixture evenly over the cream cheese filling to create a colorful and flavorful topping.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set firmly.
- Serve: Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan. Slice into wedges and serve chilled to enjoy the creamy and fruity delight.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother filling.
- Use fresh berries for the best texture and flavor in the topping.
- Chilling overnight enhances the cake’s texture and flavor penetration.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.
- The crust can be made in advance and stored airtight.