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Blackberry Lavender Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

This decadent Cheesecake with Blackberry Lavender Swirl features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy ricotta and cream cheese filling, and a vibrant blackberry-lavender sauce swirled throughout. The delicate floral notes of lavender complement the tart sweetness of fresh blackberries, creating a sophisticated dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 10 Graham Crackers
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted
  • Pinch of Salt

Blackberry Lavender Swirl

  • 2 cups Fresh Blackberries
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • Pinch of Salt
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp Cold Water
  • 2 tsp Culinary Lavender Buds

Cheesecake Filling

  • 3 (8 oz) bricks Cream Cheese, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
  • Pinch of Salt
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Ricotta, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Full Fat Buttermilk, room temperature
  • 3 Large Eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Blackberry Lavender Sauce (reserved from above) for swirling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a food processor bowl, combine graham crackers, a pinch of salt, and 2 tbsp sugar. Pulse until the graham crackers are finely ground. Add melted butter and pulse to combine. Press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan, covering the bottom and about an inch up the sides. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside.
  2. Make the Blackberry Lavender Swirl: In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook 2 cups of fresh blackberries with a pinch of salt and 1/2 cup sugar, stirring regularly for about 5 minutes until juices release and berries soften. In a small bowl, mix cold water and cornstarch until smooth and add to the blackberry mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for another 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in culinary lavender buds. Transfer sauce to a covered container and refrigerate until completely cooled.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Preheat oven to 250°F (121°C). Ensure cream cheese, ricotta, buttermilk, and eggs are at room temperature for optimal blending. In a stand mixer bowl, beat cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups sugar, and a pinch of salt on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add ricotta and beat for an additional 2 minutes until smooth. Add buttermilk and continue mixing for about a minute. With the mixer running, add eggs one at a time, allowing a few seconds of mixing between each addition until fully incorporated.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the pre-baked crust. Spoon 1/2 cup of the chilled blackberry lavender sauce in small dollops over the surface of the batter. Using a butter knife, carefully swirl the sauce throughout the top layer for an artistic effect. Wrap the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking in during baking.
  5. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the wrapped pan on a middle rack in the oven and bake for 90 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 90 minutes, or until the center jiggles slightly and the edges are set and firm. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours or overnight to set fully.
  6. Serve: Before removing from the pan, dip a knife in hot water and run it around the edges to loosen the cheesecake. Carefully unlatch and remove the springform pan sides. Slice the cheesecake cleanly using a hot knife or dental floss. Serve with additional reserved blackberry lavender sauce on top for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Make sure all dairy ingredients and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
  • Wrapping the pan with foil prevents water from seeping into the crust during baking in a water bath or moist oven.
  • The lavender buds add a subtle floral note; use culinary-grade lavender only to avoid bitterness.
  • Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for best texture and flavor development.
  • Use a sharp or heated knife to slice cleanly without cracking the cheesecake.