Smoked Gouda & Chive Cookies & Cream Cheesecake with Whipped Cream & Cherry Topping

Ingredients:

• Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups crushed kosher cookies
• 1/4 cup smoked gouda cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Filling:
• 16 oz Norman's Kosher Cholov Yisroel Cream Cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup kosher cookie crumbs
• Topping:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup kosher cherries, pitted and halved

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed kosher cookies, smoked gouda cheese, chives and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until it starts to brown. Let cool completely.
5. In another mixing bowl, beat Norman's Kosher Cholov Yisroel Cream Cheese, sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
6. Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
7. Stir in the kosher cookie crumbs and mix until just combined.
8. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly browned.
10. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
11. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
12. Serve the cheesecake with whipped cream and cherry topping.