Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA tantalizing aroma wafts through the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. When it comes to dessert, my go-to indulgence is undeniably this White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake. Picture a luscious, creamy filling cradled by a perfectly crunchy crust and kissed by the sweet-tart burst of raspberries. It’s surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for impressing guests at gatherings or treating yourself to a well-deserved slice of joy at home. Plus, with options for gluten-free and vegan variations, everyone can savor this delightful dessert. Ready to create a showstopper that will have your friends begging for the recipe? Let’s dive in! Why is this cheesecake so delightful? Indulgent, creamy layers come together to create a dessert that feels like a special occasion, yet it’s easy enough for any home cook. Versatile options make it a crowd-pleaser, allowing for gluten-free and vegan adaptations that don’t compromise on taste. Lush raspberry swirls not only add a burst of color but also a tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish. Quick preparation means you can whip this up and still have time for that cup of coffee you love—perfect for unexpected guests! If you’re enamored by berry desserts, don’t miss our Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls as well for another delightful treat! White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create this indulgent dessert. For the Crust Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides a sweet, crunchy base; substitute with gluten-free cookie crumbs for a gluten-free version. Granulated Sugar (for crust) – Enhances the sweetness of the crust; no direct substitution needed. Melted Butter – Binds the crumb mixture together; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. For the Raspberry Filling Fresh or Frozen Raspberries – Contributes a burst of tartness; use any ripe berries for flavor adjustment. Granulated Sugar (for raspberry sauce) – Sweetens raspberry filling to balance tartness; adjust based on berry sweetness. Lemon Juice – Brightens raspberry flavors; optional but recommended for enhancing taste. For the Cheesecake Batter White Chocolate – Key ingredient for creaminess and sweetness; choose high-quality for best results; can substitute with dairy-free white chocolate for vegan versions. Cream Cheese – Creates the smooth, rich base of the cheesecake; use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option. Granulated Sugar (for cheesecake batter) – Sweetens cheesecake mix; no direct substitution recommended unless using sugar substitutes. Large Eggs – Provides structure; necessary for texture; use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan version. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure extract preferred; can substitute with almond extract for variation. Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and moisture; can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Heavy Cream – Enriches the batter; substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy version. For Garnish Extra Raspberry Sauce or Fresh Berries – For garnish and presentation; allows for creativity with serving. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake bakes evenly and reaches the perfect texture. Make sure your rack is in the middle of the oven for optimal heat distribution. Step 2: Prepare the Crust In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and create an even layer. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. After baking, remove and set aside to cool. Step 3: Make the Raspberry Filling In a small saucepan, add fresh or frozen raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. You will notice the raspberry sauce bubbling and thickening. Once done, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any seeds, and allow it to cool completely. Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate Using either a microwave or a double boiler, melt the white chocolate until smooth, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn. If using the microwave, heat for 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring in between. Once melted, set it aside to cool for a few minutes before incorporating it into the cheesecake batter. Step 5: Mix the Cheesecake Batter In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together using a mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. Then, gently fold in the melted white chocolate, sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until everything is well combined and velvety. Step 6: Layer the Cheesecake Pour about half of the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully drizzle half of the cooled raspberry filling over the batter, and use a knife or skewer to create swirls for a marbled effect. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and finish with the remaining raspberry sauce, swirling again to create a beautiful pattern. Step 7: Bake in a Water Bath To bake your White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, place the springform pan inside a larger baking pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath will help maintain moisture while baking and prevent cracks. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Step 8: Cool and Refrigerate Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool inside for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. After an hour, remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up. Step 9: Serve and Garnish Before serving your exquisite White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, top it with extra raspberry sauce or fresh berries for an enticing presentation. Carefully slice and serve, and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Expert Tips for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Firm Crust: Ensure that you press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to provide a solid base that won’t crumble when slicing. Taste as You Go: Always taste-test your raspberry filling for the desired sweetness before incorporating it into the cheesecake to tailor it to your preference. Gentle Egg Mixing: When adding eggs to the cheesecake batter, mix on low speed to prevent too much air from getting in, which can lead to cracks during baking. Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath is essential for maintaining moisture and achieving an even texture without cracks. Slow Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar to avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking. Customize Toppings: Get creative with your garnishes! Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce will elevate your presentation and taste of this White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake. Make Ahead Options These White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecakes are a perfect fit for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and raspberry filling up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their delightful textures and flavors. Additionally, the cheesecake batter can be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter over the crust and raspberry filling, then follow the baking instructions. This prep method means you can effortlessly impress guests with a show-stopping dessert that tastes just as delicious as if you made it all in one go! What to Serve with White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Looking to create a memorable meal around this dreamy dessert? Here are some delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience. Fresh Mixed Berries: The bright flavors of strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries add a refreshing contrast, enhancing the raspberry notes in the cheesecake. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich, velvety chocolate sauce adds indulgence and creates a delightful chocolate-berry flavor interplay. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that balances the richness of the cheesecake, making every bite heavenly. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso cuts through the sweetness, complementing the dessert’s creaminess and enhancing its luxurious feel. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop the cheesecake, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and enhancing the dessert’s silkiness. Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the cheesecake. Sparkling Rosé: A glass of bubbly sparkling rosé offers a touch of elegance and its fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the raspberry flavors. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These make a gorgeous and fun addition to your dessert spread, appealing not just visually but also providing a tasty, fruity bite alongside the cheesecake. Each of these pairings brings out the best in your White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, making your meal an unforgettable feast for the senses! White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Variations Feel free to get creative and make this cheesecake your very own with these delightful adjustments! Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute with gluten-free cookie crumbs for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. Berry Blend: Incorporate strawberries or blueberries for a colorful mixed berry topping that brightens every slice. Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and swap the heavy cream with coconut cream, ensuring the white chocolate is dairy-free for an equally indulgent treat. Flavor Infusion: Add almond extract or a hint of orange zest to deepen the flavor profile and surprise your tastebuds. Spicy Twist: Elevate the raspberry sauce with a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon, offering an intriguing kick that turns heads. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle dark or milk chocolate over the top before serving for a luxurious touch that chocolate lovers will adore. Nutty Crust Alternative: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed almonds or pecans for a deliciously crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Extra Creamy Filling: Add an extra layer of cream cheese or sour cream for a richer filling that truly melts in your mouth. If you love exploring berry-inspired desserts, you might also enjoy our delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches or you can always indulge in our delightful Double Chocolate Chunk for pure chocolate bliss! Storage Tips for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Fridge: Keep your cheesecake stored in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 5 days. This preserves its creamy texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 2 months without losing quality. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to ensure it comes back to its creamy perfection. Reheating: This cheesecake is best served cold, so simply slice and serve straight from the fridge after thawing. No reheating is necessary! White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of raspberries should I use for this cheesecake? Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen raspberries for this cheesecake. If using frozen, make sure to let them thaw before cooking and gently mash them to release their juices. Fresh raspberries will provide a vibrant burst of flavor, but frozen will work just as well if that’s what you have on hand. How long can I store the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake? Very! You can keep your cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavor. If you decide to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months as well. Can I freeze leftover cheesecake? If so, how? Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze your cheesecake, first, slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw a slice overnight in the refrigerator. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your cheesecake cracks, it could be due to mixing too vigorously or sudden temperature changes. Next time, try mixing the batter on low speed after adding your eggs and ensure you cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven. Covering the top lightly with foil during baking can also help! Remember, cracks don’t affect the taste, and you can easily cover them with raspberry sauce or fresh berries when serving. Is there a dairy-free option for this cheesecake? Absolutely! For a dairy-free, vegan White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, simply substitute cream cheese with plant-based cream cheese and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. Ensure your white chocolate is dairy-free, and replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert! Can pets eat cheesecake? No, it’s best not to share cheesecake with your pets. While the ingredients may seem harmless, many pets are lactose intolerant, and sugar or sweeteners can be harmful to them. It’s a delicious treat for humans, but best kept away from furry friends! Irresistible White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe Discover the delightful and indulgent White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsCooling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs Substitute with gluten-free cookie crumbs for gluten-free version.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Enhances the sweetness of the crust.1/2 cup Melted Butter Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.For the Raspberry Filling2 cups Fresh or Frozen Raspberries Use any ripe berries for flavor adjustment.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust based on berry sweetness.1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Optional but recommended for enhancing taste.For the Cheesecake Batter8 ounces White Chocolate Choose high-quality for best results; can substitute with dairy-free white chocolate for vegan versions.16 ounces Cream Cheese Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option.1 cup Granulated Sugar No direct substitution recommended.3 Large Eggs Use a flax egg for a vegan version.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Pure extract preferred; can substitute with almond extract.1 cup Sour Cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy version.For Garnish1/2 cup Extra Raspberry Sauce or Fresh Berries For garnish and presentation. Equipment 9-inch springform panMixerMedium Bowlsmall saucepanDouble boiler or microwave Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Ensure your rack is in the middle of the oven.Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8 minutes.In a small saucepan, cook raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Strain and cool.Melt the white chocolate until smooth. Set it aside to cool.Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add eggs, mixing on low, then fold in melted white chocolate, sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the crust, drizzle half of the raspberry filling, and swirl. Pour the remaining batter and raspberry sauce, swirling again.Bake in a water bath for 60-70 minutes until edges are set. Center should jiggle slightly.Cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.Before serving, garnish with extra raspberry sauce or fresh berries. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg NotesPress the crust firmly into the pan for a solid base. Taste-test raspberry filling before mixing into the cheesecake. Use a water bath to prevent cracking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!