Description
Sour Cream Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert that combines the smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the tangy twist of sour cream. This luscious treat offers a balanced flavor, a stable, crack-resistant finish, and an indulgent experience suitable for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes to set and enhance the buttery aroma.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently to incorporate without overbeating. Stir in the vanilla extract for added warmth and flavor.
- Add the Sour Cream: Carefully fold in the sour cream, ensuring it is fully blended. This step is essential to achieve the signature tangy flavor and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center still jiggles slightly to the touch.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and the texture firm up perfectly.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overbeat the mixture to prevent incorporating excess air that can cause cracks.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the springform pan with foil to maintain even heat and moisture, reducing the risk of cracks.
- Use a springform pan to easily remove the cheesecake and keep edges intact.
- Proper chilling is crucial for the cheesecake to set fully and develop its distinct tangy, creamy profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/10th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg