Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
  • 24 oz (680g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream, room temperature
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp (8g) lemon juice
  • 2 cups (300g) wild Montana huckleberries
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) water
  • 1 tsp (5ml) lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and 1-inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until fragrant and golden, then set aside to cool.
  3. Beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and aerated.
  4. Incorporate sour cream, vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp lemon juice into the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Add eggs and egg yolks one at a time on low speed, mixing just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air.
  6. In a saucepan, combine huckleberries, 1/2 cup sugar, water, and 1 tsp lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes.
  7. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a small amount of water) and boil for 1 minute until the sauce is thick and glossy.
  8. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drop spoonfuls of the huckleberry reduction on top and swirl gently with a knife.
  9. Wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger tray of hot water (water bath). Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-65 minutes.
  10. Allow the cheesecake to cool slightly, then refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours before serving.