Are you craving a dessert that's both comforting and sophisticated? Look no further! This Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble is the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery, crunchy crumble topping, all bursting with the juicy sweetness of fresh blueberries. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This easy recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, offering a delicious alternative to store-bought desserts. Let's dive into this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small (8-inch) baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a whisk works too!
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gently fold in the blueberries. Don't overmix; a few blueberries might break, adding to the overall deliciousness.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Creating the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the crumble tough.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake filling.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. The center might still jiggle slightly – that's okay!
- Let the crumble cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy dessert!
- Serve warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble:
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened for a smooth and creamy filling. You can soften it quickly by microwaving it for short bursts, or leaving it out at room temperature for about an hour.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough filling. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined.
- Use fresh blueberries: Fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture. If you only have frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the batter.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet crumble, reduce the amount of sugar in both the filling and topping.
Variations:
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble: Add the zest of one lemon to the cheesecake filling for a zesty twist.
- Raspberry Cheesecake Crumble: Substitute raspberries for the blueberries.
- Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Use diced apples instead of blueberries, and add a dash of nutmeg to the crumble topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble is a fantastic dessert option, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while enjoying a delicious and relatively healthy treat. It's a simple recipe ideal for beginner bakers, yet sophisticated enough for experienced cooks to enjoy. Enjoy this delightful creation, and remember to share the recipe with your loved ones!