Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (300 grams); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams); 1/2 cup orange juice (from 2 oranges); 4 tbsp orange zest (from 2 oranges); 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (170 grams); 2 tbsp granulated sugar (25 grams); 7 tbsp melted butter (98 grams); 1 packet unflavored gelatin (7 grams); 4 tbsp water, divided; 3 cups softened cream cheese (680 grams or 3 blocks); 1 14 oz. can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk (396 grams); 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1/2 cup whipping cream (120 ml); 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 56 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bursting with festive flavor and creamy indulgence, this Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe has your name written all over it. Imagine the bright tartness of fresh cranberries swirling through a luscious, velvety cheesecake base sweetened just right with condensed milk. It’s a beautiful balance of tangy and sweet that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special treat that calls for a show-stopping dessert with a touch of elegance and warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a white electric mixer with two beaters inside a clear glass bowl. There is a creamy, pale yellow mixture with a smooth and fluffy texture inside the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is touching the mixing machine from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To bring this Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe to life, you only need a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant cranberry sauce, crumbly crust, and the rich, creamy cheesecake that everyone will rave about.

Fresh or frozen cranberries (3 cups): These provide that signature tartness and gorgeous red color to the cranberry sauce.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp): Sweetens the cranberry sauce and crust, balancing out the tart flavors.
Orange juice (1/2 cup): Adds bright citrus notes that complement the cranberries perfectly.
Orange zest (4 tbsp): Intensifies the orange flavor for a zesty kick in the sauce.
Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Forms that classic buttery crust everyone loves.
Melted butter (7 tbsp): Binds the crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
Unflavored gelatin (1 packet): Helps set the cheesecake into a smooth, sliceable texture.
Cream cheese (3 cups, softened): The star ingredient that delivers creaminess and depth in every bite.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz.): Adds sweetness and a silky texture without overpowering the cranberries.
Lemon juice (1/4 cup): Brightens the cheesecake flavor with a refreshing tang.
Whipping cream (1/2 cup): To whip into a luscious, airy topping.
Powdered sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens the whipped cream just enough for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce

Start by combining fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a vibrant, jammy sauce. This sauce will give your cheesecake that fresh and tangy twist.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

While the sauce cools, mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until every crumb is coated and sticky. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a sturdy, flavorful base that will hold all the creamy filling with ease.

Step 3: Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 2 tablespoons of water and let it soften for a few minutes. Then gently warm the gelatin until fully dissolved; this will ensure the cheesecake sets perfectly without any lumps.

Step 4: Whip the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and airy. Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until everything is fully combined. Stir in the lemon juice and the dissolved gelatin, folding everything together carefully. This process creates a rich yet light cheesecake filling with just the right amount of sweetness and citrus zing.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Spoon a generous layer of cranberry sauce over that and then gently add the rest of the cheesecake filling on top. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or overnight, so it firms up into that luscious, sliceable perfection.

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

Before serving, beat the whipping cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe this cloud-like topping over the chilled cheesecake, adding an indulgent finish that balances the tangy cranberries and creamy cheesecake beautifully.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe

A round springform pan filled with a creamy, light yellow batter base, topped with red swirls creating a marbled effect evenly spread across the surface. The pan is placed on a white round plate on a white marbled surface background. The marbled pattern shows soft, smooth, and slightly glossy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes elevates this cheesecake to wow-worthy status. Try sprinkling extra orange zest, whole fresh cranberries, or even a few mint leaves on top for a pop of color and a hint of refreshing flavor that complements the tart cranberry sauce.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, fruity sides like a crisp mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a simple bowl of vanilla bean ice cream. The coolness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the cheesecake’s rich texture and tangy cranberry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve individual portions in clear glasses layered with cranberry sauce, cheesecake, and whipped cream, creating a pretty trifle effect. Or, use festive cookie cutters to cut the cheesecake into fun holiday shapes before adding the whipped cream topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover cheesecake in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying as a sweet treat later in the week or for unexpected guests.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. Keep in mind the whipped cream topping is best added fresh after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, so avoid reheating. If you want a softer texture, let the chilled slices come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the creamy mouthfeel without losing the signature coolness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones for the cranberry sauce. Just thaw them slightly before cooking to make sure they soften evenly.

Is gelatin necessary for this cheesecake?

Yes, gelatin helps the cheesecake set firmly so it slices neatly. Without it, the texture might be too soft and not hold together as well.

Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?

Feel free to use crushed digestive biscuits or even ginger snaps for a spiced twist. Just keep the same quantity and butter ratio for the best results.

How long does it take to chill the cheesecake sufficiently?

A good minimum is 6 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture and flavor development.

Can I prepare the cranberry sauce in advance?

Definitely! The cranberry sauce can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the fridge, letting those flavors deepen wonderfully over time.

Final Thoughts

This Sweetened Condensed Milk Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together so beautifully you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether for holidays, special occasions, or a sweet weekend treat, this recipe’s balance of creamy, tart, and sweet will leave everyone smiling and asking for seconds. Give it a try—you won’t regret bringing this delightful cheesecake into your kitchen and your heart.