Ingredients
CRUST:1-1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs1/4 cup sugar6 tablespoons butter, meltedFILLING:2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened2 large eggs, lightly beaten1/2 cup sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extractSOUR CREAM TOPPING:1 cup sour cream1/4 cup sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extractCHERRY TOPPING:1/2 cup sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch1 can (14-1/2 ounces) pitted tart cherries1 teaspoon lemon juiceFew drops red food coloring
Preparation
In a small bowl, combine crust ingredients. Press onto the bottom and a third of the way up the sides of a 9-in. springform pan; set aside.
For filling, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, sugar and vanilla; beat just until smooth. Pour into prepared crust. Bake at 375° for 20 minutes. Remove from oven; cool 15 minutes. Increase temperature to 450°.
Meanwhile, combine sour cream topping ingredients. Spread over filling. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool at room temperature; cover and chill 12 hours.
For cherry topping, drain cherries, reserving juice. Set cherries aside. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and cherry juice until smooth. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in lemon juice, food coloring and reserved cherries. Cool for 5 minutes. Spread over cheesecake; chill several hours. Just before serving, remove sides of pan.
