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No-Fail Creamy Ricotta Cheesecake

An indulgent, creamy cheesecake topped with juicy cherries, perfect for any occasion and easy to make.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time4 hours
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Bakery-Style, cheesecake, Cherry Topping, dessert, Ricotta
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: 290kcal

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 200 g graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits) Provides a sweet, crispy base.
  • 75 g melted butter Adds richness and binds the crust together.
  • 2 tbsp sugar Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
  • Pinch of salt Balances sweetness.

For the filling

  • 450 g whole milk ricotta Offers a creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • 300 g cream cheese (room temperature) Adds depth and creaminess.
  • 200 g granulated sugar Sweetens the filling perfectly.
  • 3 large eggs Binds the ingredients.
  • 1.5 tsp vanilla extract Infuses the filling with flavor.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Thickens and holds the cheesecake together.
  • Zest of 1 lemon Adds brightness.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Balances the creamy sweetness.

For the cherry topping

  • 300 g pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) The star of the topping.
  • 2 tbsp sugar Sweetens the cherry topping.
  • 1 tsp cornstarch Thickening agent for the cherry sauce.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the flavor of the cherries.
  • 1 tbsp cherry liqueur (Optional) Elevates the cherry topping.

Instructions

Preparation of the crust

  • In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  • Press firmly into the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan and refrigerate.

Blending the filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the ricotta and cream cheese until completely smooth.
  • Gradually add the granulated sugar and incorporate the eggs one at a time.
  • Add the vanilla extract, flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until a smooth batter is achieved.

Baking the cheesecake

  • Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
  • Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and bake for 55 to 65 minutes.
  • Cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

Making the cherry topping

  • In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until warmed.
  • Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, stirring it into the cherry mixture and simmer until thickened.

Serving

  • Spoon the cooled cherry topping over the cheesecake and slice with a hot knife.

Notes

For the best flavor, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. Store covered in plastic wrap.