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This Cranberry Jam & White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake is a luxurious and festive dessert that combines the tartness of cranberry jam with the sweetness of white chocolate mousse, all sitting on a rich and creamy cheesecake base. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this cheesecake is both decadent and beautiful!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 lbs cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the White Chocolate Mousse:
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (for whipping)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cranberry Jam:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp water (optional, if jam is too thick)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter (and heavy cream if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to pack it tightly and evenly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and sour cream.
- Add the flour and mix just until incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for about 1 hour.
- After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
3. Make the Cranberry Jam:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir in a tablespoon of water if the jam is too thick.
- Remove from heat and allow the jam to cool completely. It will thicken further as it cools.
4. Make the White Chocolate Mousse:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the white chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave (in 20-second intervals, stirring after each). Allow it to cool slightly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until smooth and combined. Be careful not to deflate the mousse.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, spread a layer of cranberry jam evenly over the top.
- Next, carefully spoon and spread the white chocolate mousse on top of the cranberry jam, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- For added decoration, you can swirl the cranberry jam and mousse lightly with a knife to create a marbled effect.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for an additional 2-3 hours to set the mousse layer.
- When ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and enjoy!
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be made 1-2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together and the layers to set perfectly.
- Cranberry Jam: The cranberry jam can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to make it ahead, it’s great to prepare in advance and simply spoon it onto the cheesecake before serving.
- For Extra Garnish: Decorate the top with a few fresh cranberries, orange zest, or even white chocolate shavings for a festive touch.
This Cranberry Jam & White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake combines creamy, tart, and sweet flavors for an unforgettable dessert. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays or any special occasion!
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