Description
Discover the surprising harmony of garden-fresh zucchini and creamy cheesecake. This Zucchini Cheesecake features a spiced graham cracker crust, a velvety cream cheese filling infused with finely grated zucchini, and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg for a dessert that is moist, rich, and decadently unique.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gently fold in the grated, well-drained zucchini until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door cracked for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Ensure you squeeze the grated zucchini thoroughly using a cheesecloth or paper towels; excess moisture will prevent the cheesecake from setting properly.
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: PT20M
- Cook Time: PT45M
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g