Description
This classic cheesecake recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, creamy filling made with cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and eggs. Baked to perfection, this cheesecake is smooth with just the right amount of tang and sweetness, perfect for any special occasion or dessert craving.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (can be gluten free if you wish)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 32 oz cream cheese, room temperature and softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or oil, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the crust: In a food processor, blend the graham crackers to fine crumbs. In a bowl, combine these crumbs with sugar, salt, and melted butter until you have a wet sand texture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Freeze the crust while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the filling: Using a mixing bowl or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, scraping the sides as needed. Add sugar and mix again until creamy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing to incorporate fully.
- Add the eggs: Lower the mixer speed and add eggs one at a time, mixing each until fully combined before adding the next. Mix until the filling is smooth and homogenous.
- Assemble and smooth the filling: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan and smooth the top. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake for 75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when moved.
- Cool and chill: Let the cheesecake cool on the counter for 1 hour. Then refrigerate it for 5-6 hours to fully set. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Using room temperature ingredients helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Line the pan bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to prevent cracks and dryness.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for the best texture and flavor.
- You can use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a more even bake, you can bake the cheesecake in a water bath, although this recipe does not require it.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 75 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: classic cheesecake, cream cheese dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake
