Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake Recipe

If you are searching for a show-stopping holiday dessert, look no further than this delightful Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake. Imagine layers of tangy, vibrant cranberry jam melding effortlessly with a luxuriously smooth white chocolate mousse, all resting atop a classic creamy cheesecake base and a crisp graham cracker crust. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, bursting with festive flavors that capture the spirit of the season perfectly. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, silky and rich, making it the ultimate centerpiece for your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating your Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and festive color, ensuring your dessert will delight everyone at the table.

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that holds the cheesecake together beautifully.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients, adding richness without overpowering.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the crust’s crispiness.
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star of the cranberry jam layer, offering vibrant tartness and natural color.
• ½ cup orange juice: Enhances the cranberry jam with bright, citrusy notes.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the jam, turning tart cranberries into a luscious spread.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds aromatic depth and fresh citrus flavor to the jam.
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy foundation for your rich cheesecake layer.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake, balancing the tang of cream cheese.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake.
• 3 large eggs: Provides structure and silkiness to the cheesecake filling.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, perfect for a luscious texture.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Stabilizes the cheesecake for a firm yet creamy finish.
• 6 oz white chocolate, chopped: The base for the mousse, imparting sweetness and creamy decadence.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps melt the white chocolate smoothly in the mousse.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold: Gives the mousse airy lightness and rich mouthfeel.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a delicate flavor to the mousse, tying it all together.
• Sugared cranberries: For a festive, sparkling garnish that tastes as amazing as it looks.
• White chocolate shavings: Adds elegance and a hint of extra sweetness on top.
• Whipped cream (optional): For an indulgent finishing touch that guests will adore.

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a firm foundation for all the layers to come. Bake until set and lightly golden, then let it cool completely. This crust provides that irresistible crunch and buttery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers above.

Step 2: Make the cranberry jam layer

Simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with orange juice, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency packed with bright and zesty flavor. Allow this beautiful cranberry jam to cool—it will add both color and a hint of tartness to your Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake that’s utterly unforgettable.

Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake layer

Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, then mix in vanilla extract. Incorporate eggs one at a time for a structured yet tender filling. Next, blend in sour cream and flour gently, ensuring everything is well combined without overmixing. Pour this luscious mixture over the cooled crust, laying the groundwork for the cheesecake’s hallmark creamy richness.

Step 4: Add the cranberry jam swirl and bake

Dollop cooled cranberry jam over the cheesecake batter and use a skewer or knife to swirl it delicately for a marbled, festive effect. Bake until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly—a sign of perfect cheesecake texture. Cooling to room temperature before refrigerating overnight helps the layers firm up and the flavors to harmonize beautifully.

Step 5: Create the white chocolate mousse

Gently melt white chocolate with milk until smooth and glossy. Whip cold heavy cream with vanilla extract to stiff peaks, then gently fold in the melted white chocolate. This folding step keeps the mousse light and airy while delivering rich, creamy sweetness that beautifully complements the tart cranberry layer beneath. Spread this mousse evenly over the chilled cheesecake for the crowning layer.

Step 6: Garnish and chill

Top your Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake with sugared cranberries and delicate white chocolate shavings for a snowy, festive look. Add optional whipped cream dollops for extra indulgence. Chill until the mousse sets firmly, then slice and serve to oohs and ahhs from your guests.

How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake

Garnishes

Brighten up every slice with glossy sugared cranberries that provide a festive crunch. White chocolate shavings not only add beauty but blend sweetness and texture. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance that winter wonderland vibe, making presentation as memorable as the flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced vanilla ice cream to balance its tartness. For a refreshing contrast, add a simple citrus salad or a few roasted nuts on the side. These thoughtful accompaniments complement the rich and creamy layers without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dessert on a festive platter or individual glass jars for a modern twist that showcases each beautiful layer. Swirl extra cranberry jam on the plates for a splash of color or drizzle white chocolate sauce for a luxurious touch. You can even turn slices upside down and add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to intensify flavors and add texture playfulness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After serving, cover your leftover Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated, where it will stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy festive sweetness beyond just one meal.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes well if wrapped carefully. To prevent freezer burn, first cover with plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, ensuring the mousse and cheesecake layers maintain their perfect texture.

Reheating

Cheesecakes are best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is generally not recommended for this dessert. If you prefer a softer texture, simply let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers soften just enough without losing their delicious structure.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the jam layer?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly for the jam. Just thaw them slightly and proceed with the simmering step. They’ll break down beautifully and create a vibrant, tangy jam.

Is it possible to make the white chocolate mousse without whipping cream?

While whipping cream is key to achieving the mousse’s light and airy texture, you could experiment with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

How far in advance can I prepare this cheesecake?

This Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake shines when made 1 to 2 days ahead. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and the layers to set firmly, making slicing and serving much easier.

What kind of pan is best for this cheesecake?

A springform pan is ideal as it ensures easy removal without damaging the delicate layers. A 9-inch pan works perfectly to achieve the right thickness of crust and layers.

Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?

Yes, you can swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits or crushed ginger snaps for a spicier twist. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like this Christmas Cranberry Jam White Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake to bring festive cheer to your holiday table. With its dazzling appearance and exquisite layers of flavor, it’s the kind of dessert that invites smiles and second helpings. I encourage you to dive in and make this showstopping recipe yours—your family and friends will thank you for years to come!