🍰 Unicorn Cheesecake 🦄
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups (200g) crushed graham crackers or vanilla cookies
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) sour cream
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
Gel food coloring in pastel colors (pink, purple, blue, yellow)
For the Topping:
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorative toppings
Instructions
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is silky and lump-free.
Add Colorful Swirls: Divide the cheesecake batter evenly into four small bowls. Use gel food coloring to tint each portion a different pastel color (pink, purple, blue, yellow). Spoon dollops of each colored batter randomly over the prepared crust. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the colors together, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct swirls.
Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any leaks. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Chill the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
Prepare the Topping: Just before serving, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or other festive toppings.
Serve and Impress: Carefully release the springform pan and slice the cheesecake into portions. Serve chilled and watch the smiles light up the room.