If you are looking for a festive dessert that truly dazzles, the Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute showstopper. This delightful cheesecake combines a crisp graham cracker crust with luscious white chocolate mousse swirled with homemade cranberry jam, offering the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and bright tartness. It’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing, capturing the spirit of the holidays in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this cheesecake will bring warmth, color, and joy to your Christmas table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and visual appeal, from the buttery crust to the velvety mousse and tangy cranberry swirls.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, buttery foundation that holds the cheesecake together beautifully.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust and balancing layers.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker crumbs and brings richness to the crust.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient for making bright and tangy cranberry jam.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for jam): Sweetens the cranberries while allowing their natural tartness to shine.
- ¼ cup water: Helps soften the cranberries as they cook into a luscious jam.
- Zest of 1 orange (optional): Adds citrusy brightness and depth to the cranberry jam.
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped: Melts into the creamy mousse, delivering luxurious sweetness.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The rich and tangy base of the cheesecake filling.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, familiar notes.
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks: Lightens the filling, creating a mousse-like texture.
- Fresh cranberries: For garnish, adding color and a festive touch.
- White chocolate shavings: Decorative and delicious finishing touch.
- Mint leaves: Bring fresh aroma and beautiful greenery for plating.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing it to set and develop a light golden color. Once baked, let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry Jam
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest if you’re using it. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries soften and the jam thickens, which should take about 10 minutes. The aroma of tart cranberries mingled with zesty orange will fill your kitchen and signal that this jam is ready. Set the jam aside to cool slightly before adding it to your cheesecake.
Step 3: Prepare the White Chocolate Mousse Filling
Melt the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until the chocolate is silky smooth. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy and smooth. Next, add the vanilla extract and the melted white chocolate, blending them into the cream cheese mixture. Finally, fold in the whipped heavy cream carefully to keep the mixture light and airy, creating that mousse-like texture that makes this cheesecake extra special.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour half of the mousse filling onto the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Spoon half of the cranberry jam over the filling in dollops and gently swirl it with a knife to create beautiful marbled patterns. Repeat this with the remaining mousse and jam, smoothing the top and giving it a final swirl. This layering technique not only looks gorgeous but ensures every slice gets that perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Step 5: Chill
Cover your cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This chilling time allows the mousse to set perfectly and the flavors to meld into a harmonious celebration of taste and texture.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh cranberries, white chocolate shavings, and a few mint leaves to add a festive flourish. Slice up and enjoy the creamy, fruity masterpiece you’ve created!
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your cheesecake elevates its presentation and adds additional flavors and textures. Fresh cranberries bring vibrant color and a burst of tartness, while white chocolate shavings melt slowly on the tongue, providing sweet, creamy accents. The mint leaves add a refreshing pop both visually and aromatically, making every bite feel like a festive celebration.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with light and complementary side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a cup of rich, dark coffee or a glass of sparkling wine to highlight the white chocolate’s sweetness. A simple mixed berry salad or a spoonful of citrus sorbet also balances the mousse’s richness perfectly, rounding out your dessert experience without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique presentation, try layering the mousse and cranberry jam in clear glass glasses for individual servings, topped with miniature mint sprigs. Another fun option is to turn the cheesecake into mini parfaits or cupcakes with the same layers of crust, mousse, and jam. These ideas make the Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy and perfect for holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled and chilled, this cheesecake should be kept refrigerated in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap to preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, giving you the perfect opportunity to enjoy this holiday treat at a leisurely pace.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes wonderfully if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap it carefully with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture—this way, your white chocolate mousse remains as light and fluffy as when freshly made.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled mousse cheesecake, reheating is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture and vibrant cranberry swirls. If the cheesecake has been in the fridge, simply let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for the perfect mouthfeel.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones for making the cranberry jam. Just be sure to thaw them slightly and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid diluting the jam.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free alternative or crushed gluten-free cookies to keep the crust safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I substitute the white chocolate with regular chocolate?
You can, though the flavor profile will change significantly. White chocolate adds creamy sweetness that complements the tart cranberries perfectly. Milk or dark chocolate will make the mousse richer and less creamy but still delicious.
How long does the cranberry jam keep?
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the homemade cranberry jam should stay fresh for about one week. It’s a versatile preserve you can also enjoy on toast or with other desserts.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales well. Just double the ingredient quantities and use a larger pan or multiple pans. Keep baking and chilling times similar, but watch the texture closely to ensure perfect results.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving the Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe a try this holiday season. It’s a dessert that delivers stunning flavor and festive flair while being surprisingly approachable to make. From the buttery crust to the creamy mousse and tart cranberry swirls, every bite feels like a warm holiday hug. So gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and prepare to impress everyone around your table with this irresistible cheesecake!
Print
Christmas Cranberry White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This festive Christmas Cheesecake features a crisp graham cracker crust layered with a luscious white chocolate mousse cheesecake filling swirled with tart homemade cranberry jam. Topped with fresh cranberries, white chocolate shavings, and mint leaves, it’s a perfect holiday dessert that balances creamy sweetness with bright cranberry flavors.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cranberry Jam
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
White Chocolate Mousse Filling
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
Garnish
- Fresh cranberries
- White chocolate shavings
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool completely.
- Make the Cranberry Jam: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, water, and orange zest if using. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats until the cranberries soften and the liquid thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the White Chocolate Mousse Filling: Melt the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and the melted white chocolate, mixing gently to combine. Finally, fold in the whipped heavy cream carefully to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour half of the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Spoon half of the cranberry jam over the filling and use a knife to gently swirl it through. Add the remaining cheesecake filling on top and smooth the surface. Finish by spooning the remaining cranberry jam on top and swirling it into the filling for a marbled effect.
- Chill: Cover the assembled cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set firmly and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan carefully. Garnish the top with fresh cranberries, white chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves as desired. Slice and serve chilled to enjoy the creamy, tangy, and festive dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth mousse texture.
- The cranberry jam can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until needed.
- White chocolate should be melted gently over simmering water to prevent burning.
- Chilling overnight helps the cheesecake set properly and develop deeper flavor.
- Optional orange zest adds a bright citrus note to the cranberry jam.
