Description
A decadent fusion of tangy rhubarb and creamy cheesecake, this Rhubarb Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a swirl of sweet-tart rhubarb compote, and a rich, velvety filling. It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings or a special treat at home. With customizable toppings and make-ahead convenience, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Rhubarb Compote:
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Extra rhubarb compote
- Fresh rhubarb slices or strawberries
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes and let cool.
Prepare the Rhubarb Compote:
- In a saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes until rhubarb breaks down and thickens.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time on low speed.
- Mix in sour cream and flour until smooth.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour half of the filling over the crust.
- Spoon half of the rhubarb compote over the filling.
- Add the remaining filling and swirl the rest of the compote on top using a skewer or knife.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the center is just set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cool for 1 hour.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if needed.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
- For a no-bake version, omit eggs and bake time, setting the cheesecake with gelatin.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American