Indulge in the ultimate showstopper dessert with this Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake—a luxurious fusion of creamy cheesecake, vibrant raspberry swirls, and a buttery cookie crust. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. With its velvety texture and tangy-sweet raspberry flavor, it’s sure to impress every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Visually stunning – A gorgeous pink swirl design makes it Instagram-worthy.
✔ Rich & creamy – Smooth, velvety cheesecake with a tangy raspberry twist.
✔ Perfect balance – Sweet cream cheese meets tart raspberries for a delightful contrast.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
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½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
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2 tbsp granulated sugar
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¼ tsp salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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24 oz (680g) cream cheese, room temperature
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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1 cup (240g) sour cream, room temperature
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3 large eggs, room temperature
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp lemon juice
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¼ tsp salt
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1-2 drops pink or red food coloring (optional, for extra vibrancy)
For the Raspberry Swirl:
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1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen raspberries
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2 tbsp granulated sugar
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1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tsp water)
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1 tsp lemon juice
For Garnish (Optional):
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Fresh raspberries
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White chocolate shavings
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Whipped cream
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Edible flowers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until combined.
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Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan.
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Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Raspberry Swirl
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In a small saucepan, cook raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until softened (~5 mins).
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Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds (optional).
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Return to heat, stir in cornstarch slurry, and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (~3 mins).
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Add sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt; mix well.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined (don’t overbeat).
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If using, add a drop of pink food coloring for a pastel hue.
Step 4: Assemble & Swirl
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Pour half the batter over the crust.
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Drizzle with half the raspberry sauce, then gently swirl with a knife.
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Repeat with remaining batter and sauce.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
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Wrap the pan in foil (to prevent water seepage) and place in a water bath.
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Bake for 55-65 minutes until edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
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Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool inside for 1 hour.
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Chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
Step 6: Serve & Decorate
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Run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform.
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Garnish with fresh raspberries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
Room temperature ingredients – Prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
Don’t overmix – Too much air causes cracks.
Water bath – Keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracks.
Slow cooling – Prevents sinking and cracking.
Variations & Swaps
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Crust alternatives – Use Oreos, shortbread, or gluten-free cookies.
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Berry options – Swap raspberries for strawberries or blackberries.
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No-bake version – Use gelatin in the filling and refrigerate (no oven needed).
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Chocolate twist – Add cocoa powder to half the batter for a marble effect.
Serving Suggestions
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Elegant plating – Serve with gold leaf or raspberry coulis drizzle.
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Party-ready – Cut into mini cheesecake bites for gatherings.
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Seasonal twist – Top with pomegranate seeds in winter or peaches in summer.
Storage Tips
✅ Fridge – Keeps for 5 days covered.
✅ Freezer – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month (thaw overnight in fridge).
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake combines the richness of classic New York cheesecake with the fruity brightness of raspberries. The stunning swirls make it a centerpiece dessert, while the foolproof method ensures a silky, crack-free result every time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re celebrating love, a birthday, or just a sweet craving, this cheesecake delivers both beauty and flavor. It’s a labor of love that’s 100% worth the effort!
Want to personalize it? Try adding rose extract for floral notes or a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberries for extra tartness.
Let me know if you’d like adjustments—I’m happy to help tailor this recipe to your taste!
