There’s something undeniably magical about a dessert that combines creamy, tangy cheesecake with the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh peaches. This Peach Streusel Cheesecake is exactly that—a luxurious treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The buttery streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite a symphony of textures and flavors.
I first made this cheesecake for a family barbecue, and it was an instant hit. The combination of velvety cheesecake, caramelized peaches, and crispy streusel was so good that my relatives couldn’t stop raving about it. Since then, it’s become a staple in my dessert repertoire, especially when peaches are in season.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can use fresh or canned peaches, and the streusel topping adds a rustic, homemade touch that elevates the dessert to something truly special. So, grab your springform pan, and let’s make a dessert that’s sure to impress!
This Peach Streusel Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It features a creamy cheesecake base, a layer of sweet peaches, and a buttery streusel topping that adds a delightful crunch.
What makes this cheesecake special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cheesecake is rich and tangy, the peaches add a sweet, juicy contrast, and the streusel brings a crispy, buttery finish. Together, they create a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet treat, this cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and absolutely delicious. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Exciting Story
Last summer, I brought this Peach Streusel Cheesecake to a neighborhood potluck, and it was an instant hit. At first, everyone gravitated toward the grilled dishes, but once they tried the cheesecake, they couldn’t stop raving about it.
One of my neighbors, who’s a self-proclaimed dessert snob, even said, “This is the best cheesecake I’ve ever had!” By the end of the night, the entire cake was gone, and I had multiple requests for the recipe. Now, it’s my go-to dish for any gathering. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a memory maker.
Why This Peach Streusel Cheesecake
This recipe is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Here’s why:
- Creamy and Tangy: The cheesecake layer is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced.
- Sweet and Juicy: The peaches add a fresh, fruity contrast.
- Buttery and Crispy: The streusel topping brings a delightful crunch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat.
What You Need For Peach Streusel Cheesecake
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Peach Layer:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
How to Make Peach Streusel Cheesecake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Prepare the Peach Layer: In a small bowl, toss the peach slices with sugar and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Arrange the peach slices evenly over the filling.
- Make the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the streusel over the peaches.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Tips For Peach Streusel Cheesecake
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter to prevent cracks.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent sinking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Fruit: Swap peaches for apples, berries, or cherries.
- Crust: Use crushed cookies or nuts instead of graham crackers.
- Streusel: Add chopped nuts or oats for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and flour.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- Substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Add more fruit and reduce the amount of streusel topping.
Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style
And there you have it—a Peach Streusel Cheesecake that’s as indulgent as it is delicious! Don’t forget to let us know how your cheesecake turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more sweet inspiration
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake tastes even better the next day. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. - What if I don’t have fresh peaches?
Use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed). - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers and flour. - How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Don’t overmix the batter and let the cheesecake cool gradually. - Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! Apples, berries, or cherries work well. - What’s the best way to serve this cheesecake?
Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. - Can I add nuts to the streusel?
Yes, chopped pecans or almonds add a delicious crunch. - How do I make the cheesecake more festive?
Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce before serving. - Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, try a cookie crust or a nut-based crust. - How do I make this cheesecake vegan?
Use vegan cream cheese, plant-based butter, and an egg substitute.