Print

Creamy New Year’s Cheesecake Recipe with Festive Pomegranate Topping

creamy New Year’s cheesecake - featured image

A rich and silky cheesecake topped with fresh pomegranate seeds and edible gold leaf, perfect for festive celebrations and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup (175g) fresh pomegranate seeds
  • Edible gold leaf sheets (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of your 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even ½-inch layer. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes.
  3. Prepare the filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add vanilla extract and then eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to avoid overmixing.
  5. Mix in sour cream, flour, and lemon juice on low speed just until combined.
  6. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until edges are set but center has a slight wobble.
  8. Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  9. Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  10. Before serving, top with fresh pomegranate seeds and edible gold leaf sheets. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to prevent cracks. Cool cheesecake gradually in the oven with door cracked to avoid cracking. Chill for at least 4 hours for best texture. Water bath optional but not necessary if cooling slowly.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, New Year dessert, pomegranate topping, festive dessert, holiday cheesecake, gold leaf, easy cheesecake