Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert with a smooth texture and a buttery graham cracker crust. This classic recipe delivers a perfectly balanced cheesecake—dense yet velvety, with a hint of tanginess from sour cream. Whether served plain or topped with fruit, chocolate, or caramel, it’s a timeless treat that never fails to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
- Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Wrap the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
- Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water, about 1 inch deep.
- Bake for 55-70 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
- Cool and Chill:
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Remove from the water bath and cool at room temperature for another hour.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheesecake:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Avoid over-mixing to prevent excess air bubbles.
- Bake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to maintain its creamy texture.
This cheesecake is a showstopper, perfect for any occasion. You can find more details here. Happy baking! 🍰✨