Description
This Rhubarb Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and tangy rhubarb topping, perfect for spring desserts. Featuring a graham cracker crust and a luscious cream cheese filling, it’s baked to perfection and chilled to set, creating a smooth, rich treat with a fruity twist.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Rhubarb Topping
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the rhubarb: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped rhubarb, 1/3 cup sugar, and water. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the rhubarb softens and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup sugar and continue mixing until creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until just combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spoon the cooled rhubarb mixture evenly on top, gently swirling it into the filling if desired for a marbled effect. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled and set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen rhubarb if fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain it well before cooking to remove excess moisture.
- For a smoother top without swirls, skip the swirling step and spread the rhubarb topping evenly over the cheesecake filling.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven for a more even bake and to reduce cracking, though it’s optional for this recipe.