Creating your Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Crust Preparation: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and ¼ cup sugar until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and slightly up the sides. Bake for 10 minutes and then allow it to cool.
3. Cheesecake Filling:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and remaining sugar (¾ cup). Beat on medium speed until smooth.
– Add the vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently mix in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
5. Arrange Peaches: Layer sliced peaches evenly over the cooled crust. Pour the cheesecake filling on top, smoothing it out gently.
6. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for about an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. Prepare Toppings: Once the cheesecake is chilled, melt the peach preserves in a small saucepan. Brush this glaze over the top of the cheesecake and arrange summer berries attractively on top.
9. Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before slicing. You can add whipped cream for extra flair!

These steps will guide you in effortlessly creating this incredible cheesecake.