This fresh berry topped cheesecake is a refreshing and delicious summer treat. It is also a big and beautiful show stopper; everyone will ooh and awe over your beautiful cheesecake. This recipe makes a 9 x 13 inch rectangle cheesecake, so there will be plenty of cheesecake for everyone at a summer cookout or potluck. However, this cheesecake is so good, you may choose to make it for a family dessert, and be able to have a little piece each night of the week for dessert.
Makes 24 servings
For the Crust:
2 cups Nilla Wafer crumbs (about 60 cookies crushed)
6 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
4 8oz. packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 package (3.4 oz) JELL-O Lemon flavored instant pudding
1 cup sour cream
4 eggs
2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Topping:
1 package whipped topping
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup each blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, sliced strawberries
1. Heat oven to 325ºF. Line a 13 x 9 inch pan with foil, with the ends of foil extended over the sides.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the wafer crumbs, sugar, and butter. Pour the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
3. In a blender, food processor, or mixer, add cream cheese and sugar, blend until smooth. Add the sour cream, and blend until incorporated. Add the lemon pudding mix, lemon zest, and lemon juice; blend until combined. Now, add the eggs, one at a time, blending on low speed after each until just blended. Pour the cheese mixture over the crust.
4. Bake for 1 hour or until the center is almost set. Cool the cheesecake completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Use the foil handles to lift out the cheesecake from the pan. Move the cheesecake from the foil to a tray.
5. Add the vanilla extract to the whipped topping and mix in thoroughly. Spread the whipped topping over the top of the cheesecake. Now decorate with the fresh fruit.
6. Serve and enjoy!
There you have it, a big, beautiful cheesecake that everyone will love!
