Description
Celebrate any special occasion with this Easy Birthday Cake Cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling studded with colorful rainbow sprinkles, and a light whipped cream topping. This festive dessert combines the classic richness of cheesecake with the fun of birthday cake sprinkles, perfect for parties or any joyful gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra rainbow sprinkles (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
- Form and Bake Crust: Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan in an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove and allow to cool.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth batter.
- Add Flavorings and Cream: Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Fold in Sprinkles: Gently fold in rainbow sprinkles, taking care not to overmix so the sprinkles maintain their shape and color.
- Fill Pan and Bake Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the surface. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes until edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Transfer cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form for a light, fluffy topping.
- Top Cheesecake: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra rainbow sprinkles on top for a colorful, festive appearance.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this creamy, fun-filled birthday cake cheesecake.
Notes
- Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth cheesecake batter without lumps.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the slight jiggle in the center means it will firm up as it cools.
- Chilling overnight enhances texture and flavor.
- Handle sprinkles gently to keep their color vibrant within the filling.
- The whipped cream topping adds a light contrast to the dense cheesecake.
