Funfetti Cheesecake Recipe

If you love cheesecake and the fun, nostalgic look of rainbow sprinkles, this Funfetti Cheesecake is a match made in dessert heaven! Combining a rich, creamy cheesecake filling with a festive burst of colorful sprinkles, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever you're craving a fun and sweet treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a sprinkle-studded cheesecake filling, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.

What Is Funfetti Cheesecake?

A Funfetti Cheesecake is a cheesecake filled with colorful rainbow sprinkles, reminiscent of the popular Funfetti cake mix. The sprinkles add bursts of color throughout the cheesecake, making it a fun, celebratory dessert. The base is a classic graham cracker crust, and the filling is a rich and creamy cheesecake flavored with vanilla and packed with sprinkles. When baked, the sprinkles hold their color, creating a festive look that’s perfect for parties and special occasions.

Ingredients List for Funfetti Cheesecake

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base for the cheesecake.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs and adds richness.

For the Funfetti Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base of the cheesecake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
• 3 large eggs: For richness and structure.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and complements the sprinkles.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Stabilizes the filling and helps prevent cracks.
• ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies work best): These won’t bleed into the batter and will retain their bright colors.

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream: For a light, fluffy finish.
• Extra sprinkles: For decorating the top of the cheesecake.
• White chocolate drizzle: For a sweet, elegant touch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
• Different Sprinkles: You can use themed sprinkles (like holiday or birthday colors) to match the occasion.
• Cookie Crust: Try using crushed Oreos or gingersnaps for a twist on the graham cracker crust.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to create an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Funfetti Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined and smooth.
3. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined (be careful not to overmix).
5. Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to avoid the sprinkles bleeding into the batter.

Step 3: Pour the Filling into the Crust

1. Pour the Funfetti cheesecake filling into the prepared graham cracker crust.
2. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (this creates a water bath).
2. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when the pan is shaken.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door cracked open for 1 hour. This helps the cheesecake cool gradually and prevents cracks.
4. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake is fully cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to firm up and the flavors to develop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling once you add the eggs, as this can introduce air bubbles that lead to cracks during baking.
• Using Non-Jimmies Sprinkles: Regular sprinkles or sanding sugar may bleed into the cheesecake batter. Stick with jimmies (the longer, cylindrical sprinkles) for the best results.
• Skipping the Water Bath: A water bath helps ensure even baking and prevents the cheesecake from cracking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Funfetti Cheesecake has chilled and set, it’s time to serve it up and impress your guests with this colorful dessert.

How to Serve Funfetti Cheesecake

• Chill Before Slicing: Make sure the cheesecake is fully chilled before slicing to get neat, clean slices. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between each cut.
• Add Toppings Just Before Serving: For the best presentation, add whipped cream, extra sprinkles, or drizzles right before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Funfetti Cheesecake

• Whipped Cream Border: Pipe whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake for a decorative touch.
• Sprinkle Explosion: Add extra sprinkles over the top just before serving for a fun, festive look.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the cheesecake for an extra touch of sweetness.

Funfetti Cheesecake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
• Wrap the Pan for Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking into the cheesecake.
• Make Ahead: Funfetti cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This makes it an excellent dessert option for parties or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Funfetti Cheesecake?

Yes! To freeze, allow the cheesecake to cool completely and chill it in the refrigerator. Once chilled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Using a water bath and allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven are the best ways to prevent cracks. Also, be sure not to overmix the batter, especially after adding the eggs.

How long does Funfetti Cheesecake need to chill?

For the best texture and flavor, the cheesecake should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and develop its creamy consistency.

Can I use different types of sprinkles?

Yes! You can use holiday-themed sprinkles, pastel sprinkles, or any color that fits your celebration. Just be sure to use jimmies, which are long, cylindrical sprinkles that won’t bleed into the cheesecake batter.

Conclusion

This Funfetti Cheesecake is the perfect dessert to brighten up any celebration. With its colorful sprinkles and creamy, rich filling, it’s both eye-catching and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cheesecake is sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table. Now that you have the full recipe and tips, it’s time to get baking and enjoy a slice (or two) of this festive cheesecake!

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