Description
This Candy Corn Layered Cheesecake is a festive and visually striking dessert perfect for Halloween or autumn gatherings. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and three creamy layers colored to resemble classic candy corn, it combines smooth cream cheese filling with a hint of vanilla and whipped cream for a light yet indulgent treat. Easy to assemble with no baking required, it’s a delightful way to impress your guests with vibrant, delicious layers.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups heavy cream, whipped
- Food coloring (orange & yellow)
Instructions
- Make crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Make filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream, being careful to maintain the light texture.
- Divide & color: Split the cream cheese filling evenly into three separate bowls. Leave one portion plain (white), add yellow food coloring to the second bowl and mix well, then add orange food coloring to the third bowl and mix thoroughly to achieve vibrant colors resembling candy corn.
- Layer: Spread the yellow-colored filling evenly over the chilled crust and return to the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up. Next, carefully spread the orange layer over the yellow layer and chill again for 15 minutes. Finally, spread the white layer on top. Allow the fully assembled cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, so the layers set completely.
- Slice & serve: For clean and distinct layers, run a knife under hot water and dry it before slicing the cheesecake. This helps the knife glide smoothly through each layer, resulting in perfect slices ready to serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- If you prefer a less sweet crust, reduce the butter slightly or add a pinch of salt.
- Food coloring can be adjusted for intensity depending on your preference; gel food coloring works best for vibrant colors.
- Chilling times are important for the layers to set properly and maintain clean distinctions between colors.
- This cheesecake contains dairy and is not suitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets.
