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Ultimate Double Batch Holiday Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Introduction:
Every holiday season, some traditions are non-negotiable. Whether it’s the family gathering around the table, the laughter shared over a holiday movie, or the delicious spread of food, there’s something special about those once-a-year treats. This recipe is a must-try for any holiday celebration. Known for its irresistible flavor, this treat has a way of making even the busiest kitchens slow down and embrace the joy of baking.
After discovering this recipe a few years ago, I began making double batches every Thanksgiving and Christmas, because why settle for one batch when you can have double the flavor, right? This is one of those recipes that might be too delicious for its own good— you’ll find yourself sneaking bites in between meals, but your hips will thank you for the restraint.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers crushed)
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- ½ cup of sour cream
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar together.
- Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are fully coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 8×8-inch pans if you prefer to split the batch).
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After baking, set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight to chill.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled dessert just before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! Cut into squares and serve! You can also garnish with berries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or crushed nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Methods:
- Baking the Crust: The crust is simple, yet it forms the perfect foundation for the creamy filling. By baking the crumbs, you get a slightly crispy, sweet base that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the filling.
- Making the Filling: Beating the cream cheese and sugar ensures a smooth, creamy texture. The eggs help set the filling while the sour cream adds a subtle tanginess that balances the richness.
- Whipping the Cream: The whipped topping is the cherry on top. Light, airy, and slightly sweet, it complements the density of the cheesecake, cutting through the richness with its freshness.
History of the Recipe:
This dessert is based on the classic cheesecake, a dessert that dates back to ancient Greece. The earliest known cheesecake recipe comes from the Greeks, who made a cake from cheese, flour, and honey. Fast forward a few thousand years, and we have modern-day variations that include different crusts, toppings, and flavors.
While this specific recipe is a more contemporary twist—combining a graham cracker crust with a creamy filling and whipped topping—it’s still rooted in tradition. Cheesecake has remained a holiday favorite for many due to its versatility and timeless appeal.
Formation and Why It Works:
This dessert’s magic lies in the contrast between the crunchy crust, rich and creamy filling, and light, airy topping. The base provides a buttery, slightly sweet foundation that is the perfect vehicle for the velvety filling. The whipped cream topping adds a delightful lightness, making each bite melt in your mouth. It’s the ideal dessert for holidays where indulgence is key!
Lovers of the Recipe:
- For the Classic Cheesecake Lover: If you love a traditional cheesecake but are looking for something just a bit lighter, this recipe will be a hit. The whipped cream topping softens the richness of the cream cheese filling, and the graham cracker crust adds a familiar crunch.
- For the Holiday Enthusiast: Thanksgiving and Christmas wouldn’t be the same without indulgent desserts, and this one checks all the boxes. It’s rich enough to satisfy but refreshing enough to be the perfect post-meal treat.
- For the Sweet Tooth: Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a late-night treat, anyone who enjoys a delicious, rich dessert will love this. It’s decadent but doesn’t feel overwhelmingly heavy.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and possibly thirds), this double batch cheesecake is your answer. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the light, fluffy topping is sure to win over any crowd. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, leaving you more room to enjoy the holiday festivities. So go ahead—bake this for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want to add a little extra sweetness to your celebrations.
Feel free to adjust the proportions or try adding your own twist (like using different crusts or flavoring the filling with fruit or chocolate). Enjoy baking and eating this treat!