Mango Cheesecake: A Creamy and Tropical Delight

Mango cheesecake is a beautiful blend of the tropical sweetness of fresh mangoes and the richness of classic cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for summer, with its bright colors and fresh flavors, but it’s also a great option for special occasions and gatherings throughout the year. The combination of creamy cheesecake with vibrant mango puree creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but visually stunning.

Whether you opt for a baked mango cheesecake or the popular no-bake version, this dessert will bring a taste of the tropics to your table. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making mango cheesecake, including ingredients, a step-by-step recipe, variations, nutritional information, and common questions about this tropical treat.

If you’re a fan of tropical desserts, you may also want to try Coconut Pineapple Cake, which combines similar flavors of the tropics.

Why You’ll Love This Mango Cheesecake

Mango cheesecake is a must-try for several reasons:

• Creamy and Fruity: The smooth, creamy cheesecake base is perfectly complemented by the fresh, sweet flavor of mango puree.
• Tropical Flavor: It’s like a vacation in dessert form, offering a taste of the tropics.
• Visually Stunning: The bright mango swirl or mango topping adds a pop of color, making this dessert as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Flexible Recipe: This recipe is easy to adapt for a no-bake version or even a vegan cheesecake.

Ingredients for Mango Cheesecake

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cheesecake:

1. For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

2. For the Mango Puree:

• 2 large ripe mangoes (peeled and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (optional)

3. For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 ½ cups mango puree

4. For the Mango Topping (Optional):

• 1 cup mango puree
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Fresh mango slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mango Cheesecake

1. Preparing the Crust

The crust is the base of your cheesecake, and using graham crackers or digestive biscuits gives it a perfect crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.

• Crush the crackers: In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers (or digestive biscuits) into fine crumbs.
• Mix with sugar and butter: In a medium bowl, mix the crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter until fully combined.
• Press into a pan: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

For more tips on making the perfect cheesecake crust, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction’s guide.

2. Making the Mango Puree

The star of this cheesecake is the mango puree, which adds both flavor and color to the dessert. Using ripe, sweet mangoes ensures the best results.

• Blend the mangoes: In a blender, puree the mango cubes with lemon juice and sugar (if needed) until smooth. The puree should be thick but pourable.
• Set aside: Divide the mango puree—reserve about 1 ½ cups for the cheesecake filling and 1 cup for the topping.

If you’re unsure how to select the best mangoes for this dessert, check out how to pick ripe mangoes.

3. Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

The creamy filling is the heart of the cheesecake. Here’s how to make it smooth and delicious:

• Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
• Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Add sour cream and flavoring: Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
• Add the mango puree: Gently fold in the mango puree to the cheesecake filling until fully combined.

For another twist on this tropical dessert, you can explore Mango Coconut Cheesecake, which adds a layer of coconut flavor to the mix.

4. Assembling and Baking the Cheesecake

• Pour the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
• Add a mango swirl: If desired, dollop some extra mango puree on top of the filling and swirl it with a knife to create a beautiful pattern.
• Bake the cheesecake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
• Cool and refrigerate: Let the cheesecake cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Preparing the Mango Topping (Optional)

For an extra layer of mango flavor, you can add a mango topping.

• Thicken the mango puree: In a small saucepan, combine the mango puree with the cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
• Cool and spread: Let the topping cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with fresh mango slices.

Variations of Mango Cheesecake

Mango cheesecake is a versatile dessert with many variations. Here are some popular ones:

1. No-Bake Mango Cheesecake

For a simpler version, try making a no-bake mango cheesecake.

• Skip the baking: Instead of baking the cheesecake, chill the crust and filling in the refrigerator until set.
• Add whipped cream: Fold in whipped cream to the cheesecake filling for a lighter texture.
• Set in the fridge: Let the cheesecake set for at least 6 hours or overnight.

2. Vegan Mango Cheesecake

Substitute the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives.

• Vegan cream cheese: Use vegan cream cheese for the filling.
• Coconut cream: Replace sour cream with coconut cream to add a tropical flair.
• Agar-agar: Use agar-agar as a thickening agent instead of gelatin for the no-bake version.

3. Mango and Passion Fruit Cheesecake

For an extra tropical twist, add passion fruit to the mango puree for a tangy flavor.

• Passion fruit topping: Mix passion fruit pulp into the mango topping for a burst of tangy sweetness.
• Layer with mango: Create a layered effect with alternating layers of mango and passion fruit puree.

Nutritional Breakdown and Healthier Ingredient Options

1. Nutritional Breakdown

A slice of mango cheesecake (based on a 12-slice cheesecake) contains approximately:

• Calories: 400–500
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 6g

While this dessert is rich and indulgent, you can make adjustments to suit dietary needs.

2. Healthier Ingredient Substitutions

Here are some ways to make the cheesecake lighter and healthier:

• Low-fat cream cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.
• Reduce sugar: Substitute some of the sugar with Stevia or monk fruit.
• Gluten-free crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or nuts for the crust to make it gluten-free.

If you’re looking for a lighter dessert option, try Oatmeal Yogurt Apple Cake, which balances sweetness and healthiness.

FAQs About Mango Cheesecake

Can I Use Frozen Mangoes?

Yes, you can use frozen mangoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before blending them into puree.

How Long Does Mango Cheesecake Last?

Mango cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze it without the topping for the best texture.

Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?

Yes! Mango cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance, and it will taste even better after chilling in the fridge overnight.

How Do I Keep My Cheesecake From Cracking?

To avoid cracks, make sure to bake the cheesecake in a water bath and don’t overbake it. Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven also helps prevent cracks.

Can I Make This Cheesecake Without Eggs?

Yes! For an egg-free version, use a vegan egg replacer or silken tofu in place of eggs. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Mango Cheesecake

Mango cheesecake is the perfect dessert to enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of cheesecake with the tropical sweetness of mango. Whether you make a classic baked mango cheesecake, a no-bake version, or even experiment with vegan options, this dessert is bound to impress your friends and family.

The vibrant color and refreshing taste of mangoes make this cheesecake ideal for summer parties, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something tropical and indulgent. So, grab some fresh mangoes and get ready to enjoy a slice of paradise!

If you’re looking for more dessert ideas, be sure to try Caramel Macchiato Cheesecake for another flavor treat.