Festive Christmas Cheesecake

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:

24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup heavy cream

Red and green food coloring (optional, for holiday swirl)

For the Topping (Optional):

1 cup whipped cream

Festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy

Red and green candy melts, melted for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Heat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with foil to catch any potential leaks.

2. Prepare the Crust:

In a bowl, blend the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.

Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until well combined and smooth.

If desired, divide the batter into three parts: leave one plain, color one part red, and the other green.

Pour the plain batter over the baked crust, and then drop spoonfuls of the red and green batters on top. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the colors for a festive effect.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

Place the cheesecake pan in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the larger dish, about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (this creates a water bath to prevent cracks).

Bake for 60-70 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly wobbly.

Turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour.

5. Chill the Cheesecake:

Remove the cheesecake from the oven, allow it to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

6. Decorate:

Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy.

Drizzle melted red and green candy melts over the top for an extra festive flair.

Serve and Enjoy:

Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of this festive Christmas cheesecake, perfect for holiday dessert tables or a special treat to share with loved ones!

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