Peach Cobbler Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 box gluten-free yellow cake mix: This forms the base of your cheesecake and provides a subtly sweet and buttery crust.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: The butter binds the cake mix and helps to create a rich, crumbly crust.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to enhance the sweetness of the crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened: Essential for creating a smooth and creamy filling.
• 3 eggs: Provides structure and stability to the cheesecake.
• 3 teaspoons cream of tartar: Helps stabilize the eggs and contributes to the smooth texture of the cheesecake.
• 3/4 cup sugar (or Splenda): Sweetens the filling. You can use Splenda for a low-calorie option.

For the Peach Topping:

• Peaches, diced into 1/2 inch pieces: Use 1 bag of frozen VIP peaches or approximately 3 large fresh peaches. The peaches add a fruity and juicy element to the cheesecake.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the peach topping.
• 1/3 cup brown sugar: Provides a caramelized sweetness that complements the peaches.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly.
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the gluten-free yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
3. Form the Crust: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, spreading it evenly. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly.
4. Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this.
2. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Mix in the Cream of Tartar: Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until fully combined. The cream of tartar helps stabilize the filling and contributes to its smooth texture.
4. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in the sugar (or Splenda) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

3. Prepare the Peach Topping

1. Cook the Peaches: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced peaches, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are tender and the mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes.
2. Cool the Peach Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the peach topping cool to room temperature.

4. Assemble and Serve

1. Add the Topping: Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the peach topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
2. Chill the Cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set fully.
3. Serve: Release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips for Perfect Peach Cobbler Cheesecake

• Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined to prevent overmixing, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
• Cooling Gradually: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps to prevent cracks and ensures a smooth texture.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Peaches: Both fresh and frozen peaches work well. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

Peach Cobbler Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the sweet, fruity flavors of peach cobbler. With its gluten-free crust, luscious filling, and delicious peach topping, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite at your next gathering or special occasion. Enjoy this sweet treat and savor every bite of this perfect dessert fusion!

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