Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form a crust.
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the lemon juice and gently fold in the fresh blueberries.
Bake:
Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set with a slight jiggle.
Let it cool completely after removing it from the oven.
Chill:
Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
Unlock the springform pan and slice your cheesecake into wedges. Serve chilled, garnished with additional blueberries or a fruit sauce if desired!
What to Serve Fresh Blueberry Cheesecake With
While the Fresh Blueberry Cheesecake is utterly delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can take your dessert experience to the next level. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for added color and sweetness, or perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the rich flavors. A light spritzer or refreshing iced tea can also complement the cheesecake beautifully. Trust me; your friends and family will love the variety!
Top Tips for Perfecting Fresh Blueberry Cheesecake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: To ensure a smooth filling, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
Don’t Overbeat: While it's important to mix your filling thoroughly, over-beating can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks after baking.
Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cheesecake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overcooking.
Chill it Well: The cooling time is crucial. Chilling overnight improves the flavor and texture, allowing the cheesecake to set properly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Fresh Blueberry Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Ensure it's covered or stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to store it for longer, it can be frozen for up to three months; just slice it first for easy access later! To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Now, aren’t you excited to create this sumptuous Fresh Blueberry Cheesecake? It’s a delightful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends, while also being easy and fun to make in your own kitchen! Happy baking!