Bring a burst of vibrant color and superfood goodness to your table with this Pitaya and Black Goji Berry Cheesecake. This dessert not only looks stunning but also packs a punch with the antioxidant-rich benefits of pitaya (dragon fruit) and black goji berries. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special, this cheesecake is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitaya (dragon fruit) puree
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons black goji berry powder (or rehydrated black goji berries, finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- For the Topping:
- Fresh pitaya slices
- A sprinkle of black goji berry powder
- Edible flowers (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, and honey (or maple syrup). Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, continuing to mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Divide and Flavor the Batter: Divide the cheesecake batter evenly into two bowls. In one bowl, add the pitaya puree and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined. In the other bowl, add the black goji berry powder (or chopped rehydrated berries) and cornstarch, stirring until smooth.
- Create the Swirl Effect: Pour half of the pitaya batter into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Add half of the black goji berry batter on top. Repeat with the remaining batters. Using a knife, gently swirl the two batters together to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
- Chill and Decorate: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with fresh pitaya slices, a sprinkle of black goji berry powder, and edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pitaya and Black Goji Berry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s a superfood-packed indulgence that delights the senses. The vibrant colors of pitaya and black goji berries not only make this cheesecake visually appealing but also contribute to its health benefits. It’s a guilt-free treat that combines creamy, fruity flavors with a satisfying nutty crust.
For more superfood dessert ideas, visit our Superfood Desserts Collection. If you’re looking for more ways to use pitaya, check out our Top Pitaya Recipes.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and color, use fresh pitaya for the puree and high-quality black goji berry powder.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the cheesecake batter, mix just until ingredients are incorporated to avoid too much air, which can cause cracks.
- Cool Gradually: Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
This Pitaya and Black Goji Berry Cheesecake is a nutrient-dense dessert, rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Each slice contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Final Thoughts
The Pitaya and Black Goji Berry Cheesecake is not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply want to enjoy a treat that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds, this cheesecake is the perfect choice.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. For more healthy and delicious dessert ideas, explore our Healthy Dessert Recipes page.