Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of festive treats that bring joy to my family. This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse is one of those delightful desserts that never fails to impress. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! Perfect for busy moms like us, this cheesecake is a quick solution for a sweet ending to any holiday gathering. With its creamy texture and tart cranberry topping, it’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, just like it has in mine.

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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse is a true holiday gem. It’s easy to make, even for those of us juggling busy schedules. The combination of creamy cheesecake and tart cranberry jam creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Plus, the white chocolate mousse adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients for Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this festive masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the delicious crust, adding a sweet crunch that complements the creamy filling.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together, giving the crust its rich flavor and texture.
Cream cheese: The star of the show! Softened cream cheese creates a smooth, creamy filling that’s simply irresistible.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake, balancing the tartness of the cranberry jam beautifully.
Large eggs: Eggs help set the cheesecake, giving it that perfect, creamy consistency.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Heavy cream: Whipped into the mousse, it adds a light, airy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the dense cheesecake.
White chocolate: Melted white chocolate enriches the mousse, making it decadently creamy and sweet.
Cranberry sauce: This tart topping is what makes this cheesecake festive! You can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.

For those looking to customize, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the crust for a warm spice note or using a flavored cream cheese for an extra twist. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making this Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse. Each step is simple, and I promise, the end result will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps set the filling, giving you that perfect creamy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated. This mixture should resemble wet sand. Next, press it firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer. This crust is the foundation of your cheesecake, so make it sturdy!

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be creamy and luscious, ready to pour over your crust.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, gently shake the pan; the center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. Remember, it will firm up as it cools!

Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate

Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. After that, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! Chilling is essential for the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the White Chocolate Mousse

While your cheesecake is chilling, let’s whip up the white chocolate mousse. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then, fold in the melted white chocolate gently. This creates a light and airy mousse that will sit beautifully on top of your cheesecake.

Step 7: Assemble the Cheesecake

Once your cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the white chocolate mousse evenly over the top. Finally, drizzle the cranberry sauce on top, creating a festive swirl. You can even add a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color. Your Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse is now ready to shine at your holiday gathering!

Tips for Success

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t overmix the filling; this helps prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
Use a water bath for baking to keep the cheesecake moist and creamy.
Let the cheesecake cool gradually to avoid sudden temperature changes.
For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves and cranberries before serving.

Equipment Needed

Springform pan: Essential for easy removal of the cheesecake. A regular cake pan works too, but it may be trickier to serve.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for the filling and a smaller one for the mousse. Any bowls will do!
Electric mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer makes beating the cream cheese a breeze.
Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in the mousse and scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Variations of Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate Swirl: Add melted dark chocolate to the cream cheese filling for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberry.
Nutty Crust: Substitute half of the graham cracker crumbs with finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust to make this cheesecake suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Fruit Variations: Swap the cranberry jam for raspberry or cherry preserves for a different fruity twist that still feels festive.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the mousse, along with a plant-based butter substitute for the crust.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a cozy touch.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive presentation.
Offer a side of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature.

FAQs about Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse actually tastes better when made a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

If cranberry isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for raspberry or cherry jam. Both options will still give you that festive flair while adding a unique twist to your cheesecake.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to five days, but I doubt it will last that long!

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake?

To get clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. This will help you achieve those perfect, Instagram-worthy slices of your Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse!

The Joy of Making Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse

There’s something magical about creating a dessert that brings everyone together during the holidays. Making this Christmas Cheesecake with Cranberry Jam and White Chocolate Mousse fills my kitchen with warmth and laughter. The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they take their first bite is priceless. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a way to share love and create memories. Each slice tells a story of celebration, and I can’t help but smile knowing I’ve contributed to our holiday traditions. So, roll up your sleeves and let the joy of baking fill your home!