As the holiday season approaches, an enchanting aroma wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the coziness of festive gatherings. This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! With its rich, velvety cheesecake paired with a tart cranberry layer and finished with a delicately light mousse, this recipe stands out as the ultimate holiday dessert. Not only is it a showstopper for your festive feasts, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make—perfect for those busy days when time is short but flavors can’t be compromised. So, are you ready to impress your loved ones this holiday season with a slice of pure indulgence?
Why Is This Cheesecake a Must-Have?
Uniqueness: This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse stands out with its delightful combination of tangy cranberries and sweet chocolate, creating a festive flavor explosion.
Ease of Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe without stress, allowing you to enjoy the magic of homemade desserts.
Showstopper Appeal: Its stunning layered presentation not only tastes divine but also looks extraordinary, sure to wow your guests at any holiday gathering.
Versatility: Feel free to customize your cheesecake! You can switch the cranberry jam for other seasonal jams, like raspberry or cherry, for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake benefits from a day in the fridge, allowing flavors to fully develop, making it perfect for planning ahead during those busy holiday weeks.
Indulge in this culinary masterpiece, and if you’re looking for other festive treats, don’t miss out on my delightful Jangle Christmas Chocolate or flavorful Minestrone Sausage Pesto recipes!
Christmas Cheesecake Ingredients
• Create the perfect holiday dessert with this easy-to-follow ingredient list that guarantees a delightful Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse.
For the Cranberry Jam
- Cranberries – Offers tartness and is best when fresh or frozen.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cranberries, balancing their natural tartness.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and enhances the flavor of the cranberries.
For the Cheesecake Crust
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – Forms a crunchy and flavorful base; can be replaced with crushed digestive biscuits for variety.
- Brown Sugar – Provides a slight caramel flavor to the crust.
- Melted Butter – Binds the crust ingredients together for a firm base.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese – The star of the show, giving a smooth and creamy texture; full-fat works best.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness to the filling and helps achieve stability.
- Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess that balances the sweetness.
- Eggs – Essential for binding; use large for optimal results.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a stabilizer, ensuring the cheesecake sets beautifully.
For the White Chocolate Mousse
- White Chocolate Bars – Melts into a silky, creamy mousse; semi-sweet chocolate is an excellent alternative for richer taste.
- Whipped Topping – Incorporates air into the mousse, creating a light and airy texture.
Optional Garnish
- Candied Cranberries – Adds a festive touch and a bit of sparkle, perfect for topping off your cheesecake!
This collection of ingredients is the secret to crafting a sensational holiday dessert. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse
Step 1: Prepare Cranberry Jam
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently, allowing the cranberries to burst and the mixture to thicken, which should take about 15 minutes. Once the jam has reached a syrupy consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Spread half of your cooled cranberry jam over the crust, creating a beautiful base for the Christmas Cheesecake.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Once incorporated, add cornstarch and slowly pour in heavy cream, blending until everything is combined. Fold in vanilla bean seeds for added flavor before pouring the mixture over the jam layer.
Step 4: Bake
Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water to create a water bath. Bake at 325°F for 70-75 minutes until the edges are set, but the center should still wobble slightly. Turn off the oven, leaving the door ajar for an additional 10 minutes to cool gradually. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours.
Step 5: Top with Jam & Mousse
Once chilled, spread the remaining cranberry jam evenly over the surface of the cheesecake. For the white chocolate mousse, beat cream cheese until smooth and mix in melted white chocolate. Gently fold in whipped topping to create a light mousse. Spread the mousse over the jam layer, reserving some for decorative swirls on top.
Step 6: Garnish
Before serving your delightful Christmas Cheesecake, decorate with optional candied cranberries for an extra festive touch. Arrange them on top of the mousse, allowing their sparkle to enhance the visual appeal of this stunning holiday dessert. Now, you’re ready to delight your guests with this fabulous treat!
What to Serve with Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse
Delightful holiday feasts should never end without the perfect accompaniments to your festive centerpiece!
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Freshly Whipped Cream: This light topping enhances the cheesecake’s richness, adding an airy texture that complements the dense layers beautifully.
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Spiced Christmas Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea, filled with cinnamon and cloves, pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet and juicy treats add a fun, fruity contrast to the creamy cheesecake while keeping the holiday spirit alive with their festive flair.
Indulge your guests by incorporating both textures and flavors that celebrate the season. Each pairing enhances the delicious seasonal notes of your festive cheesecake!
Christmas Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with this delightful cheesecake by making some fun twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives like cashew or tofu cream for a rich texture.
Try using coconut cream as a whipped topping to maintain that lovely fluffiness! -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust to cater to gluten-free needs.
Your family won’t even notice the difference as flavor and texture remain deliciously intact! -
Chocolate Lovers: Swap the white chocolate mousse for dark chocolate mousse for a more decadent twist.
The rich, intense flavor of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry jam, creating a delightful contrast! -
Fruit Swap: Experiment with various fruit jams like raspberry or cherry in place of cranberry for a unique holiday flavor.
Each jam brings its own personality, letting you tailor the cheesecake to your family’s taste preferences. -
Nutty Crust: Try incorporating finely chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into your crust mixture for extra crunch.
This adds a delightful texture and a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience! -
Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake filling for a warm, cozy holiday vibe.
These spices will wrap your cheesecake in nostalgic vibes while enhancing its festive character. -
Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual mini cheesecakes instead of one large one using muffin tins.
They are perfect for holiday parties, allowing guests to enjoy their personal-sized delights! -
Whipped Cream Topping: For a lighter alternative, you can top the cheesecake with fresh whipped cream instead of mousse.
This method maintains a lovely lightness, allowing all the flavors to shine, especially with a sprinkle of cocoa or chocolate shavings on top.
By customizing this Christmas Cheesecake, you can create a delightful experience for your loved ones, bringing a touch of personal flair to this festive dessert. If you’re in the mood for more delicious inspirations, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars or a warming bowl of Minestrone Sausage Pesto soup!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cheesecake
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Chill Time Matters: Let the cheesecake chill for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld, resulting in a richer Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse.
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Water Bath Wisdom: Always bake your cheesecake in a water bath. This technique prevents cracks and ensures a smooth surface.
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Mixing Tips: Beat the eggs into the mixture one at a time until fully incorporated; avoid over-mixing to maintain a creamy texture.
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Cool Gradually: After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes. This step helps it cool slowly and reduces the chance of cracking.
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Perfect Jam Layer: Spread the cranberry jam gently to prevent disrupting the cheesecake layer beneath, ensuring beautiful presentation and flavor balance.
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Variations to Explore: Feel free to switch the cranberry jam for a seasonal alternative, but make sure it complements the creamy cheesecake well for optimal results.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse are perfect for busy holiday cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cranberry jam and crust up to 3 days in advance, simply refrigerate them separately to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the cheesecake itself can be baked and chilled up to 24 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, top with the remaining cranberry jam and spread the fluffy white chocolate mousse over it. This way, you’ll provide your guests with a delightful, homemade dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cheesecake
Fridge: Store any leftover Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer the slices to the refrigerator for 4–6 hours or overnight to gently thaw without compromising taste.
Serving After Freezing: Once thawed, the cheesecake can be served chilled as a delicious holiday treat—just like the day you made it!
Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Fresh cranberries are ideal for making the cranberry jam, but frozen cranberries work wonderfully too. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; they’ll burst beautifully in the pan just like fresh ones!
How should I store my cheesecake?
Keep your Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the holiday craving strikes!
Can I freeze the cheesecake, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer the slices to the fridge and let them thaw for 4–6 hours or overnight.
What if my cheesecake has cracks on the surface?
No worries! If your cheesecake develops cracks, it may have cooked too long or been in an overly warm oven. To prevent this in the future, always bake your cheesecake in a water bath and allow it to cool gradually. A little whipped topping or mousse on top can cover imperfections beautifully and add extra deliciousness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you or your guests have dietary restrictions, be sure to check that all ingredients are suitable. For a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute gluten-free graham crackers or use almond flour for the crust. Also, make sure your whipped topping and chocolate are free from allergens if necessary. It’s always best to cater to your guests’ needs to make this holiday treat inclusive!
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Most certainly! In fact, I recommend making the cheesecake a day before you plan to serve it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a perfectly set dessert, ready to impress your guests at any holiday gathering.
Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently, allowing the cranberries to burst and thicken for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until blended. Press mixture into the bottom of a greased springform pan and spread half of the cooled cranberry jam over the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream, then beat in eggs one at a time. Add cornstarch and heavy cream, blending until combined. Fold in vanilla bean seeds before pouring over the jam layer.
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill with hot water. Bake at 325°F for 70-75 minutes until edges are set but the center still wobbles. Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar for 10 minutes, then cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours.
- Once chilled, spread the remaining cranberry jam over the cheesecake. For the mousse, beat cream cheese until smooth, mix in melted white chocolate, and gently fold in whipped topping. Spread mousse over the jam layer, reserving some for decorative swirls.
- Before serving, decorate with optional candied cranberries on top of the mousse for a festive touch.
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