]Blood Orange Wild Blueberry Cheesecake

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Introduction:
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the season with this Blood Orange Wild Blueberry Cheesecake. The rich creaminess of the cheesecake is perfectly complemented by the tangy sweetness of blood orange and the burst of freshness from wild blueberries. With a buttery graham cracker crust as the base, each bite is a delightful symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • Zest of 2 blood oranges
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh blood orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Wild Blueberry Topping:

  • 2 cups (200g) fresh or frozen wild blueberries
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon fresh blood orange juice
  • Zest of 1 blood orange

Optional Additions:

  • Whipped cream for garnish
  • Fresh blood orange slices for garnish
  • Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crumbs.
  • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, blood orange zest, blood orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
  • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential leaks. Transfer it to the preheated oven.
  • Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually.

5. Make the Wild Blueberry Topping:

  • In a saucepan, combine the wild blueberries, granulated sugar, water, cornstarch, blood orange juice, and blood orange zest.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries burst, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let the topping cool to room temperature.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  • Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the wild blueberry topping evenly over the surface.
  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set completely.
  • Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream, fresh blood orange slices, and mint leaves if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure that all ingredients for the cheesecake filling are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Use fresh blood oranges for the best flavor in both the cheesecake filling and the wild blueberry topping.
  • For a thicker wild blueberry topping, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the cheesecake)
  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Total Fat: Approximately 25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 15-18g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 200-250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
  • Sugars: Approximately 15-20g
  • Protein: Approximately 6-8g

Recommendation:
Blood Orange Wild Blueberry Cheesecake is a stunning dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to brighten any day. Serve it chilled and let the vibrant colors and flavors impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a delicious dessert, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the harmonious blend of tangy blood oranges, sweet wild blueberries, and creamy cheesecake in every delightful bite!

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