Description
Classic Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert featuring a smooth cream cheese filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. This timeless recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, suitable for all skill levels and occasions. Its silky texture and versatile nature make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even, compact crust. Refrigerate to set while preparing the filling.
- Mix the Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth to avoid lumps, then gradually add sugar. Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Finally, blend in vanilla extract and sour cream or heavy cream for extra creaminess.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and level the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50 to 70 minutes. Use a water bath or bake slowly to ensure even cooking and to prevent cracking; the center should be slightly jiggly but set.
- Cool Properly: Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to develop the perfect texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid excess air bubbles and cracking.
- Baking in a water bath maintains moisture and prevents the edges from drying out.
- Loosen the cake edges immediately after baking to reduce cracks during cooling.
- Chill thoroughly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg