Description
A creamy, decadent cheesecake with a tangy and vibrant kiwi topping. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 6–8 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.
- Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan, pressing firmly on the bottom and slightly up the sides.
- Pre-bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden brown.
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar, beating until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until just combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust, spreading evenly. Gently tap the pan to release air bubbles.
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan, filling it halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and water bath (if used). Let it cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Peel and slice the kiwis into thin, even slices. Arrange the kiwi slices on top of the chilled cheesecake in a decorative pattern.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together water, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Carefully brush the glaze over the kiwi slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for another 30 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Slice and serve chilled.
- Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese is crucial for a smooth filling.
- A water bath is highly recommended to prevent cracking during baking.
- Don’t over-mix the filling after adding the eggs.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes