Ingredients
Method
For the cranberry swirl cheesecake
- Heat the oven to 350 F. Have a 9 inch round springform pan or a cheesecake pan with a removable bottom ready.
- Pulse the gingersnap crumbs, salt, and cinnamon in a food processor. Drizzle in the melted butter and pulse a few times until the mixture is evenly moistened, not greasy.
- Transfer the crumbs into the prepared pan and press into an even layer. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium-low speed until light and creamy and no lumps remain. Scrape down the bowl with a spatula as needed.
- Mix in the eggs on low speed, then blend in the vanilla and orange zest.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Tap the pan firmly on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cranberry sauce over the filling, then drag a skewer or toothpick through it to create swirls.
- Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are gently puffed and just beginning to color. The center should still wobble slightly; it will continue to set as it cools.
- Cool the cheesecake to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for 2 to 3 hours until fully set.
- Release the sides of the pan and slice the cheesecake while chilled. Serve cold, and store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.
For the homemade cranberry sauce
- Combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a medium saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the berries begin to soften.
- Turn the heat to medium, add the cinnamon stick, and continue cooking until the cranberries burst, about 10 to 15 minutes more.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Leave it chunky for a rustic swirl or blend it until smooth. Make it ahead and keep it refrigerated for several days.
Nutrition
Notes
Use full-fat block cream cheese and room temperature eggs; cold ingredients can cause lumps and cracking.
For a gluten free cranberry swirl cheesecake, choose certified gluten free gingersnap cookies for the crust.
This cranberry sauce recipe makes about 2 1/2 cups, so you will have extra. Serve it with turkey, pancakes, or yogurt.
Puree the sauce for clean, smooth ribbons, or keep it chunky for a more rustic swirl effect.
Do not overbake. The middle of the cheesecake should jiggle slightly when you pull it out, and it will firm up while chilling.
Run a thin knife around the edge of the cake before releasing the pan to help prevent cracks.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days, or wrap and freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month.
