APRICOT SWIRL CHEESECAKE

Apricot Swirl Cheesecake image

I've always loved to cook and try new dishes. But there are just some recipes-like this fancy cheesecake-that I turn to time after time. This is a favorite of family and friends. -Ardyth Voss, Rosholt, South Dakota

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h20m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1/2 cup finely ground almonds
1 cup dried apricots
1 cup water
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup apricot preserves
Whipped cream and toasted sliced almonds

Steps:

Grease the bottom and sides of a 10-in. springform pan; sprinkle with ground almonds and set aside. , In a small saucepan, cook apricots and water for 15 minutes over medium heat or until the water is nearly absorbed and apricots are tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in lemon zest; cool slightly. Transfer to a blender; cover and process until smooth and set aside., In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar and flour until smooth. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Beat in cream just until blended. Stir 1 cup into pureed apricots; set aside. , Pour remaining mixture into prepared pan. Drop apricot mixture by 1/2 teaspoonfuls over filling. Cut through filling with a knife to swirl apricot mixture. Place pan on a baking sheet. , Bake at 350° for 50-55 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen. Cool 1 hour longer., In a small saucepan, heat preserves. Press through a strainer (discard pulp). Spread over cheesecake. Refrigerate overnight. Garnish with whipped cream and sliced almonds. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 314 calories, Fat 14g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 105mg cholesterol, Sodium 92mg sodium, Carbohydrate 44g carbohydrate (39g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 5g protein.