Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cream soda
- 3 large eggs
For the Blackberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
For Decoration:
- Edible silver or gold glitter
- Fresh blackberries (optional garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
-
Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cream soda.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined.
-
Create the Blackberry Swirl:
- In a saucepan, heat blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and simmer until thickened. Let cool slightly.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust.
- Drop spoonfuls of blackberry sauce on top and swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually.
-
Decorate and Serve:
- Once cooled, sprinkle edible glitter for a moonlit effect.
- Garnish with fresh blackberries for extra enchantment.
- Chill for at least 4 hours before slicing.
Notes
- For cleaner slices, use a hot knife and wipe between cuts.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
- To enhance the “Forbidden Forest” theme, add dark food coloring to the swirl or decorate with edible moss (shredded green coconut).
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Magical, Harry Potter-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian