Funfetti Birthday Cheesecake

This festive Funfetti Birthday Cheesecake combines the creamy decadence of cheesecake with a burst of colorful sprinkles for a celebratory treat that’s perfect for any party!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz each) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (70g) rainbow sprinkles (jimmies work best to prevent color bleeding)

For the Topping:

• Whipped cream
• Extra sprinkles
• Mini candles or festive decorations

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated (avoid overmixing to prevent cracks).
4. Gently fold in the sprinkles using a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
2. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight.

Step 4: Decorate

1. Remove the cheesecake from the pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Pipe whipped cream around the edges or in swirls on top.
3. Sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles and add candles or other fun decorations for a festive touch!

Tips for Success:

• Prevent Color Bleeding: Use high-quality sprinkles (avoid nonpareils) and fold them into the batter just before pouring.
• Crack-Free Cheesecake: Bake with a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below the cheesecake to create steam.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of almond extract for a subtle cake-like flavor.

This colorful and creamy Funfetti Birthday Cheesecake is guaranteed to be the star of the celebration!  Would you like a suggestion for mini cheesecake versions or a no-bake adaptation?