Description
Experience the ultimate creamy and rich cheesecake with this classic recipe that reveals seven irresistible secrets for perfect texture and flavor. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, this dessert is baked to perfection and chilled to set beautifully, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake evenly.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Form Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even base layer for the cheesecake.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to incorporate the flavor evenly throughout the filling.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing each until just combined to maintain a smooth texture without overbeating.
- Fold in Sour Cream: Gently fold the sour cream into the filling mixture to add moisture and richness without losing airiness.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles, indicating a perfect bake.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to firm up and develop its flavors before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracking during baking.
- Do not open the oven door frequently while baking to maintain steady temperature.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal of cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours; overnight chilling yields the best texture.
- For extra moisture, consider placing a pan of water in the oven during baking for a water bath effect.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe
