If you’re looking to wow your guests with a dessert that perfectly balances festive tartness and creamy sweetness, the Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe will become your new holiday favorite. This luscious cheesecake brings together a crisp graham cracker crust, a vibrant cranberry jam layer, a rich and smooth cheesecake base, and a dreamy white chocolate mousse topping. Every bite is packed with layers of flavor and texture that make it not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe, it will become a holiday tradition you look forward to year after year.

The image shows a round cheesecake on a white plate with purple and green flower designs. The cake has three layers: the bottom layer is a brown crumbly crust, the middle layer is thick and creamy light yellow with red berry spots mixed inside, and the top layer has swirls of white cream piped all around. Each swirl is topped with a bright red raspberry, and the raspberries and cream are dusted with powdered sugar. The background is a white marbled surface with a blurred teapot and some greenery in the back. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients, each adding a unique touch of flavor and texture. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the fresh cranberries and silky white chocolate, these essentials work together to create an unforgettable dessert.

Graham cracker crumbs: A crunchy base that provides the perfect contrast to creamy layers.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the crust with a lovely golden hue.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake layers for balanced flavor.
Fresh or frozen cranberries: Bring vibrant color and a natural tartness that’s essential for the jam layer.
Orange juice and zest: Infuse the cranberry jam with citrus brightness for extra zing.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake, offering a smooth, tangy, and creamy foundation.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake and mousse.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cheesecake.
Sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake moist with a subtle tang that enhances flavor.
All-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake without overpowering its delicate texture.
White chocolate: The key to a luscious mousse topping, lending sweetness and creaminess.
Milk: Used to melt the white chocolate smoothly for the mousse.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to airy perfection to create the mousse’s light texture.
Sugared cranberries and white chocolate shavings: Beautiful garnishes that add festive sparkle and extra flavor.

How to Make Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to form a compact crust layer. Bake it for about 10 minutes until golden and fragrant—this step ensures a sturdy, buttery base that will hold up to the luscious layers above.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Jam Layer

While the crust bakes, prepare the cranberry jam by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with orange juice, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. This vibrant, tangy-sweet layer adds a festive pop of color and flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and flour to create a silky cheesecake batter. Pour this carefully over the baked crust, then spoon the cranberry jam on top. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the jam into the batter for a marbled effect that makes every slice a work of art.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven for about 55 to 65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture without being overbaked. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for several hours or overnight to fully set.

Step 5: Create the White Chocolate Mousse

To make the white chocolate mousse, gently melt chopped white chocolate with a splash of milk over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Allow it to cool slightly. Meanwhile, whip the cold heavy cream with vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks. Carefully fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until combined, keeping as much air in the mixture as possible to maintain that delightful mousse texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread the creamy white chocolate mousse evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Return the whole dessert to the fridge to chill for at least two more hours, giving the mousse time to set into a luscious, velvety topping that beautifully crowns this festive treat.

How to Serve Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe

Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a show-stopping presentation, decorate the cheesecake with sugared cranberries, which add a delightful crunch and sparkle reminiscent of frosty winter mornings. White chocolate shavings sprinkled over the mousse bring additional texture and a touch of elegance. If you want to add extra indulgence, a dollop of softly whipped cream on each slice never fails to please.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing accompaniments to balance its rich flavors. Serve slices alongside a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a small bowl of fresh berries for a burst of brightness. A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea also complements this dessert perfectly, making it an ideal finale to any holiday meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe even further, consider serving it in individual glass jars layered with extra cranberry jam and mousse. Or create mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for a fun, bite-sized option at parties. Garnishing with edible gold leaf or winter-inspired sprigs like rosemary also adds a festive, sophisticated touch that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe has been enjoyed, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4-5 days, making it perfect for savoring in smaller portions throughout the week.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it well in advance. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture.

Reheating

Since this is a no-heat mousse and cheesecake dish, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Instead, serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and creamy textures. If the dessert feels too cold, simply let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones, and sometimes they even break down more easily during cooking, helping the jam thicken nicely.

Is it possible to make the cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies to keep the crust gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How long does the mousse layer need to chill?

Chilling the mousse on top of the cheesecake for at least two hours helps it firm up to that perfect airy but stable consistency that melts in your mouth.

Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?

Definitely. In fact, making this Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe one or two days in advance enhances the flavors and makes slicing much easier, ensuring perfect presentation.

What if I don’t have white chocolate on hand?

While white chocolate is essential for the mousse’s signature flavor, you could experiment with cream cheese mousse or a simple whipped cream topping, but expect a different taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe enough if you want to impress your family and friends with a dessert that’s both festive and decadently delicious. Each component shines on its own but comes together to create an unforgettable holiday treat. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and give yourself the gift of baking this stunning cheesecake. You’ll be so glad you did!

Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe