Name: Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 11 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 32 ounces block cream cheese, room temperature; 8 ounces sour cream (full fat), room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 2 cups fresh cranberries; ½ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup water

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

There is something irresistibly magical about this Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe that elevates the classic creamy cheesecake into an extraordinary dessert worthy of any celebration or cozy night in. The perfect balance between smooth, rich cream cheese filling and the vibrant tartness of fresh cranberries creates a visual and flavorful experience that’s simply unforgettable. Swirled throughout the luscious cheesecake, the cranberry sauce adds bursts of color and a delightful tang that dances on your palate with every bite. Whether you’re a cheesecake aficionado or new to baking this heavenly treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll reach for time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a round dessert in a silver baking pan. The dessert has three visible layers: a crumbly golden brown crust pressed along the bottom and sides, a smooth creamy white filling layer that covers the crust evenly, and several uneven dollops of thick dark red jam spread across the top of the white layer in a random pattern. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays its part, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, tartness, or that irresistible crust crunch.

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the crust, offering a buttery texture with a hint of sweetness.
⅓ cup granulated sugar (for the crust): Provides the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery crumbs.
½ cup unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust ingredients into a sturdy, golden base.
32 ounces block cream cheese (room temperature): The star ingredient delivering the creamy, smooth texture cheesecake is known for.
8 ounces sour cream (full fat, room temperature): Adds tangy richness and keeps the cheesecake moist and velvety.
1 cup granulated sugar (for the filling): Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cheesecake’s flavor profile.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances brightness and balances sweetness with a fresh zing.
½ teaspoon salt: Ensures all flavors shine by rounding out the taste.
4 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the filling together, providing structure and a creamy finish.
2 cups cranberries: The tangy heroes of the dish that get transformed into a rich, smooth sauce.
½ cup granulated sugar (for cranberry sauce): Sweetens the raspberry sauce while retaining its tart undertone.
⅓ cup water: Helps the cranberries cook down into a luscious sauce ideal for swirling.

How to Make Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and wrapping your 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath bake. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl, then press this mixture firmly into the pan, building up the crust about an inch on the sides. This will give your cheesecake the perfect crunchy base to contrast the creamy filling. Bake it for about 8 to 10 minutes until golden and fragrant, then set it aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Sauce

While the crust chills, dive into making the zingy cranberry swirl. Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries start popping and the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once thickened, blend the sauce until smooth with an immersion blender and set it aside to cool. This vibrant sauce not only adds festive color but also an irresistible tart sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip up the Cheesecake Filling

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat room-temperature cream cheese with sugar on medium-low until silky and lump-free. Next, add sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt, mixing gently to combine all the luscious flavors. Incorporate eggs one at a time on low speed, taking care not to overmix; this helps keep the filling velvety and prevents cracks during baking. Scrape down the bowl sides as you go to ensure a perfectly mixed batter.

Step 4: Assemble and Swirl

Pour half of the creamy cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, then dollop spoonfuls of the cooled cranberry sauce across the surface. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cranberry sauce through the batter, creating beautiful, marbled patterns. Repeat this layering with the remaining cheesecake filling and cranberry sauce, swirling again to get that signature look and harmonious flavor throughout.

Step 5: Bake with Water Bath and Cool

To achieve a silky, crack-free cheesecake, place the springform pan inside a large roasting pan and carefully pour boiling water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake at 325°F for 55 minutes. The cheesecake edges should be set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake slowly cool inside for an hour. Then move it to a wire rack to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 8 hours or overnight—patience here ensures that perfect creamy texture.

Step 6: Release and Serve

Once well chilled, gently run a thin knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake from the pan, then carefully remove the springform ring. Your cranberry-swirl masterpiece is now ready to be sliced and enjoyed.

How to Serve Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

A round cheesecake with a smooth cream layer on top is decorated with dark red and purple swirls forming leaf shapes. The cheesecake is cut into slices, with one slice being lifted by a metal spatula, showing its thin light brown crust layer. The cake sits on a white marbled textured surface, and nearby there is a small white bowl filled with fresh cranberries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a garnish can elevate the cheesecake’s appearance and flavor. Fresh cranberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprig of mint offer a festive touch and enhance the contrasting colors. You could also drizzle a little melted white chocolate or whipped cream rosettes for an extra luxurious feel that guests will adore.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with light accompaniments that won’t overpower its nuanced flavors. Consider serving slices alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a tangy orange compote to complement the cranberry’s brightness and add a little extra zing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking presentation, slice the cheesecake into mini portions for a buffet-style party or serve in elegant glass jars layered with extra cranberry sauce and crumble topping. You can even adorn each slice with edible flowers or zest of citrus for a sophisticated twist. The Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe lends itself perfectly to creative plating that will wow your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked and chilled, wrap your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great dessert to prepare ahead for any occasion.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Just wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve that creamy texture and vibrant cranberry swirl.

Reheating

For those who prefer a slightly softer texture, let the cheesecake rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving whole slices as it may affect the texture. Instead, enjoy it chilled or gently warmed by leaving it out ahead of time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the cranberry swirl?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking so that the sauce thickens evenly and blends smoothly.

How do I avoid cracks in my cheesecake?

Key tips include using room temperature ingredients, mixing on low speed to avoid too much air incorporation, and baking the cheesecake in a water bath. Also, cooling the cheesecake gradually—first in the turned-off oven and then at room temperature—helps prevent cracking.

Can I make this cheesecake without a water bath?

While it’s possible, using a water bath helps regulate the heat and moisture, resulting in a creamier texture and fewer cracks. If you skip it, bake at a lower temperature and watch carefully to avoid over-baking.

Is there a substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can substitute sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt for a similar tang and texture. However, sour cream provides a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.

How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?

For the best texture and flavor, chill your cheesecake for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period helps the filling set fully and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe enough for anyone looking to wow their guests or treat themselves to something truly special. Its creamy, tangy, and beautifully swirled layers bring the best of holiday flavors all year round. Take your time with each step, enjoy the process, and you’ll end up with a dessert that’s just as stunning as it is delicious. Go ahead and bake yourself a slice of happiness—you deserve it!