Description
Raspberry Ricotta Cheesecake is a deliciously light and creamy twist on traditional cheesecake. Made with smooth ricotta cheese, this dessert has a lighter, fluffier texture compared to the usual cream cheese variety. Topped with a fresh raspberry compote, it’s a perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and creamy.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
2 cups ricotta cheese (drained if using fresh)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the raspberry compote:
2 cups fresh raspberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
For the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are well-coated and the mixture is damp. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes and then cool.
- For the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, sour cream, and flour, mixing until well combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door ajar. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- For the raspberry compote: In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down. If desired, add cornstarch to thicken. Let the compote cool to room temperature.
- To assemble: Once the cheesecake has set, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Spoon the raspberry compote generously over the top of the cheesecake and optionally garnish with fresh raspberries or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Berry Mix: Swap out raspberries for a mix of berries like blackberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
- Citrus Twist: Add some orange zest to the cheesecake filling for an added citrus flavor.
- Nut Crust: Add chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts to the graham cracker mixture for extra texture.
- Vegan Ricotta Cheesecake: Use dairy-free ricotta and cream cheese substitutes, and replace the eggs with flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the raspberry compote for a decadent touch.
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating: Cheesecake is best served cold or at room temperature, so allow it to sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including baking and cooling)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg