If you’re searching for a festive dessert that truly pops with color and flavor, look no further than this delightful Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake filling with a luscious cherry topping, combined with a classic graham cracker crust tinted just right to bring vibrant colors to your plate. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a patriotic holiday, or just a fun treat to brighten your day, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress your friends and family while delivering a luscious taste experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that together create a stunningly rich and colorful dessert. Each component plays a key role in creating the classic creamy texture, vibrant hues, and that perfect sweetness that makes cheesecake so beloved.
- 2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs: Forms the crunchy, buttery base for your cheesecake with its timeless flavor.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Helps bind the crust crumbs together for a firm, yet tender foundation.
- 2-3 drops sky blue gel food coloring: Adds that show-stopping blue hue to the crust for the “blue” in our patriotic trio.
- 2 – 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake, providing that silky, tangy creaminess every bite needs.
- ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough to balance the cream cheese without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Stabilizes the cheesecake so it sets perfectly smooth and sliceable.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the filling together and contribute to that classic rich cheesecake texture.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla bean extract: Infuses warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into the filling for extra lightness and velvety mouthfeel.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without any graininess.
- 8 oz cherry pie filling: Makes a beautiful, sweet “red” topping that completes the patriotic look and taste.
How to Make Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blue Graham Cracker Crust
Start by mixing the crushed graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and your blue gel food coloring. The key here is to evenly distribute the color without making the crust soggy. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan so it forms a nice even layer. This beautiful blue base will add both color and a tasty crunch to every slice.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Add sugar and cornstarch, then mix well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, blending after each addition for a perfectly smooth texture. Next, add the vanilla bean extract to infuse the filling with a rich aroma. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture for extra creaminess and lightness.
Step 3: Bake and Chill
Pour the creamy filling over your chilled blue crust, smoothing the top to an even surface. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly—this ensures a silky texture. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours to fully set. Once firm, gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the top. The glossy red cherries provide a stunning contrast against the creamy white and vibrant blue layers beneath.
How to Serve Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cherry topping is already a showstopper, feel free to add a few fresh blueberries or a sprig of mint to add texture, extra color, and a fresh aroma. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can also give the cheesecake a festive, frosty look that’s perfect for any celebration.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines on its own, but pairing it with a simple bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the richness beautifully. Light, fruity fruit salads or even a glass of chilled rosé can make this dessert the grand finale of any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a really fun presentation, serve individual cheesecake cups layered with graham cracker crumbs, then the filling, topped with cherry pie filling and fresh berries. Alternatively, arrange mini American flags on toothpicks as cake toppers, or display the cheesecake on a bright red or blue cake stand to keep the patriotic theme alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe covered securely in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it tightly wrapped prevents it from absorbing any other flavors and maintains its creamy texture.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its smooth consistency and bright colors.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served cold and does not require reheating. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing for the optimal creamy texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel for the crust?
Yes, you can use regular food coloring, but gel tends to provide a more vibrant, concentrated color without adding extra liquid, which could affect the crust texture.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, but cornstarch gives a lighter, silkier texture to the cheesecake.
Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies on cream cheese and heavy cream for its signature creaminess, which are difficult to replicate. However, you could experiment with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream, but expect some changes in texture and taste.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Make sure not to overbake and cool the cheesecake gradually. Using room temperature eggs and cream cheese helps prevent lumps and cracking. Avoid opening the oven door during baking too often.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
While chilling at least 4 hours is required for setting, letting it chill overnight will give you the best sliceability and allow all flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe is truly a showstopper that’s as fun to make as it is to share. Its colorful layers and luscious flavors bring joy to every celebration and special moment. Trust me, once you try it, this has the potential to become your go-to dessert for holidays or whenever you want to brighten up your dessert table. Go ahead and bake this beauty—you won’t regret it!
Print
Red White and Blue Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Red White and Blue Cheesecake is a patriotic dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, vibrant blue-tinted cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping. Perfect for celebrations, it combines creamy texture and festive colors for a deliciously eye-catching treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 – 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 2–3 drops sky blue gel food coloring
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla bean extract
Topping
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix the crushed graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and cornstarch until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla bean extract and then carefully fold in 2-3 drops of sky blue gel food coloring until the filling is evenly tinted a light blue color.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the blue cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly cracked for 1 hour to cool gradually. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the topping: Just before serving, whip the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake surface. Finally, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the whipped cream layer to create a vibrant red topping contrasting with the blue cheesecake.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Don’t overbake the cheesecake to avoid cracking; gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
- The cherry pie filling adds a sweet, fruity layer that complements the creamy cheesecake perfectly.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to meld.
- For a stronger blue hue, add an additional drop of gel food coloring as desired.
