Description
A classic creamy baked cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a luscious texture that is perfect for any dessert occasion. This recipe yields a rich and velvety cheesecake that is baked to perfection and chilled for optimal flavor and consistency.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Mix the vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until combined, being careful to avoid overmixing to maintain a smooth texture.
- Mix Dairy: Blend in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Pour Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan and smooth the top.
- Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 55-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to help prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate: Remove from oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve the best texture before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Avoid overmixing eggs to prevent cracks and maintain a creamy texture.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances flavor and firmness.
- If desired, top with fresh fruit or fruit compote before serving.
- Make sure to loosely cover the cheesecake with foil if baking in a particularly hot oven to prevent over-browning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
