Description
Sweet dreams melt into reality with Cotton Candy Cheesecake, a whimsical dessert that dances between childhood nostalgia and gourmet elegance. Pastel swirls and creamy richness invite you to savor a slice of pure delightful indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Sweeteners and Flavorings:
- 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: cotton candy flavoring or cotton candy syrup
Decorative Ingredients:
- Optional: cotton candy
- Optional: sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the oven to 325F (160C) and coat a 9-inch springform pan with grease for optimal baking performance.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl, pressing the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom to create a compact crust foundation.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, allowing it to cool completely and set a sturdy base for the cheesecake.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, uniform texture without lumps.
- Incorporate sour cream and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to enhance the cheesecake’s creamy consistency.
- Gently introduce eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next to maintain a smooth mixture.
- For an authentic cotton candy experience, fold in cotton candy flavoring or syrup, creating a vibrant and whimsical flavor profile.
- Carefully transfer the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, using a spatula to create an even, glossy surface.
- Position the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, watching for set edges and a slightly wobbly center.
- Switch off the oven, leaving the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour to prevent cracking.
- Extract the cheesecake and allow it to reach room temperature, promoting gradual cooling and stabilization.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal flavor and texture development.
- Before serving, garnish with delicate cotton candy wisps and optional colorful sprinkles for a playful presentation.
- Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice into elegant portions, and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cream cheese mixture and even baking.
- Wrap the springform pan’s exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Avoid overmixing eggs to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracking on the cheesecake surface.
- Customize flavor by experimenting with different cotton candy syrups or adding pastel food coloring for a more vibrant presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg