Ingredients

200 g graham crackers (crushed)

100 g melted butter

2 tbsp sugar

600 g cream cheese (softened)

1 cup sugar

3 large eggs

1 cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp cornstarch

2 cups cherry pie filling or homemade cherry compote

100 g dark chocolate (melted)

¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds or peanuts)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan.

Step 2: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and continue mixing until creamy.

Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until combined after each addition.

Step 5: Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Step 6: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open to cool gradually.

Step 8: Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours and preferably overnight to develop the best texture.

Step 9: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 10: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cherries, then sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Step 11: Slice and enjoy your beautifully decorated Cherry Blossom Cheesecake.

Tips & Variations

Use homemade cherry compote for a fresher, less sweet topping option.

Substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits if graham crackers are unavailable.

For a nut-free version, omit the chopped nuts and add extra chocolate drizzle instead.

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can make a homemade cherry compote with frozen cherries by cooking them down with a little sugar and cornstarch until thickened. Let it cool before spreading on the cheesecake.

Why is my cheesecake cracking?

Cracks can form if the cheesecake is overbaked or cooled too quickly. To prevent this, bake until just set with a slight jiggle, and cool gradually with the oven door slightly open before refrigerating.