Mouthwatering Peach Crumb Cheesecake
Let me take you on a delicious journey down memory lane! I distinctly remember the first time I made this Peach Crumb Cheesecake. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I had friends coming over for dinner. With summer peaches in season, I thought, “Why not make something memorable?” Little did I know, this glorious dessert would steal the spotlight! The moment I served it, everyone’s eyes lit up like they had just discovered buried treasure. The perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, juicy peaches, and crumbly topping created a dessert that was not just tasty, but a true crowd-pleaser.
What makes this cheesecake unique? Oh boy, it’s all about that luscious creaminess combined with the freshness of ripe peaches. The crumb topping adds that delightful crunch which transforms each bite into a mini celebration. Plus, topping it off with caramel and whipped cream? Absolute perfection! So, are you ready to make some mouths water? Let’s dive right in!
What’s in Peach Crumb Cheesecake?
– Cream Cheese: 16 oz of softened cream cheese forms the creamy base of our cheesecake. I always go for Philadelphia brand because it gives the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
– Granulated Sugar: 1 cup for just the right amount of sweetness. You could swap this with coconut sugar for a healthier option, if you’re feeling adventurous!
– Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp of this liquid gold brings warmth and depth to the filling. I swear by pure vanilla extract – none of that imitation stuff for me, thank you very much!
– Eggs: 3 large eggs contribute to that wonderful creamy texture and help bind the filling together. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
– Sour Cream: 1/2 cup of sour cream adds an irresistible tanginess and richness. It’s the secret ingredient that often leaves people guessing what makes the cheesecake so good!
– Heavy Cream: Another 1/2 cup enhances that velvety texture – you want your cheesecake to be rich!
– Fresh Peaches: 4 ripe peaches that are peeled and sliced will be the star of our topping! They should be sweet and juicy, ideally in season.
– Brown Sugar: 2 tbsp for the peach topping – because who doesn’t love that caramel-like flavor when paired with peaches?
– Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp brightens up the peach flavor and adds that perfect zing.
– Graham Cracker Crumbs: Our foundation! 1 cup creates the buttery crust that every cheesecake deserves.
– Rolled Oats: 1/2 cup gives that crumb topping a delightful, hearty texture.
– Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp of cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of spice; I like to sneak it into desserts whenever possible.
– Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup melted, which brings it all together. You can’t have a crumb topping without butter!
– Caramel Sauce: For drizzling on top when serving… because it’s caramel, and who can resist that?
– Whipped Cream: A dollop on each slice takes it over the top!
– Cinnamon: A sprinkle for finishing touches, and to make it photogenic!
Is Peach Crumb Cheesecake Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health. I mean, let’s not kid ourselves – this is cheesecake after all! But moderation is key, and let’s break it down:
– **Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream**: Yes, they’re rich and delicious, but they’re also sources of calcium and protein. Just keep in mind that they are high in saturated fats, so it’s a treat rather than an everyday snack.
– **Peaches**: These beauties are loaded with vitamins A and C, plus they provide dietary fiber. That’s a little win for your gut health!
– **Rolled Oats**: They add some whole grains and fiber into the mix, which is always a bonus. Plus, oats can help with digestion and lower cholesterol.
– **Sweeteners**: You’ll be using sugar and brown sugar, which is a heads-up – if you’re watching your sugar intake, this is a dessert to enjoy occasionally.
Overall? This Peach Crumb Cheesecake is best served as a delightful indulgence rather than a health food. But hey, it’s all about balance, right?
Ingredients List
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar (for peach topping)
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/3 cup brown sugar (for crumb topping)
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce, for drizzling
– Whipped cream, for topping
– Cinnamon, for sprinkling on top
How to Make Peach Crumb Cheesecake?
1. **Prepare the crust**: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Once everything is combined, press this delightful mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set it aside and take a moment to admire your work!
2. **Prepare the cheesecake filling**: Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, before mixing in the sour cream and heavy cream until everything is blissfully blended.
3. **Assemble the cheesecake**: Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over the crust you prepared earlier. Give the pan a gentle tap on the countertop to get rid of any pesky air bubbles.
4. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake that beauty for about 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door a bit, and let it cool in there for just 1 hour – trust me, this step is crucial!
5. **Prepare the peach topping**: Mix together the sliced peaches, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Let this mixture bask in its deliciousness for about 15 minutes to let those flavors marry!
6. **Make the crumb topping**: In a separate bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it looks crumbly, like the best kind of sandcastle!
7. **Assemble the final layers**: Once the cheesecake has cooled, layer it with those beautiful peach slices and then top it off with the crumb mixture.
8. **Chill**: Now, let’s be patient. Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The waiting is torture, but worth every minute!
9. **Serve**: When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and finish with a light sprinkle of cinnamon. There you have it, a glorious, drool-worthy Peach Crumb Cheesecake!
Sweet Tips & Cheesy Variations!
– For an extra kick of caramel flavor, swirl in some caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before you bake. It’s totally worth it!
– Swap out the peaches for other fruits! How about cherries or blueberries? The world is your oyster!
– This cheesecake is best enjoyed with a lovely cup of coffee or tea – trust me, it’s a match made in dessert heaven.
– Don’t forget, leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days (if they last that long)!
I hope you’re feeling excited to try out this Peach Crumb Cheesecake! It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together and creates smiles all around. I’d love to hear how yours turns out – feel free to share your experience and any of your own twists you might add! Happy baking, my friends! 🌟
