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The Best Easy Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 75 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x

Description

This easy cheesecake recipe features a classic graham cracker crust and a creamy, smooth cream cheese filling. Perfectly baked until just set, it offers a rich and silky texture that pairs wonderfully with your favorite toppings such as berries, caramel sauce, or whipped cream. A simple yet indulgent dessert that’s great for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets, processed)
  • 4 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings (optional)

  • Berries
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chocolate chips
  • Lemon curd
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
  2. Make the crust: Using a food processor, pulse the graham cracker sheets until they become fine crumbs. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter; pulse again until evenly combined.
  3. Press crust: Pour the crumb mixture into a baking dish and firmly press it into the bottom and up the sides, creating an even crust. Set aside.
  4. Mix cream cheese: Using a hand or stand mixer on low speed, beat the softened cream cheese for 5-10 seconds until smooth.
  5. Add sugar and vanilla: Slowly blend in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, scraping down the sides as needed, until fully incorporated.
  6. Add eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Scrape bowl sides and mix on low until the filling is silky and smooth.
  7. Assemble cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
  8. Bake: Bake for 22-25 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the center slightly jiggles when the pan is gently shaken (usually around 24 minutes).
  9. Cool gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven slowly for 45-60 minutes to prevent cracking.
  10. Reach room temperature: Remove from oven and cool on the counter until it reaches room temperature.
  11. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
  12. Serve: Slice and serve with your choice of berries, caramel sauce, chocolate chips, lemon curd, or whipped cream.
  13. Store leftovers: Refrigerate any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
  • Letting the cheesecake cool gradually helps prevent cracking and creates a creamy texture.
  • Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture significantly.
  • Use a springform pan or baking dish with sides for easy removal and shaping.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: easy cheesecake, classic cheesecake, graham cracker crust, baked cheesecake, creamy cheesecake

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Find it online: https://harperellington.com/the-best-easy-cheesecake-recipe/