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Classic Cheesecake Recipe

Classic Cheesecake Recipe

This Classic Cheesecake Recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth dessert featuring a tangy cream cheese filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, it offers a velvety texture and universal appeal that can be customized with various toppings and crust variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of salt

Filling

  • 4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan to form an even crust. Chill briefly to set while you prepare the filling.
  2. Make the Filling: Beat room temperature cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition to keep the batter creamy. Fold in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined without overmixing.
  3. Bake Your Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles, about 55-70 minutes, to ensure a creamy texture.
  4. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open to cool gradually and prevent cracking. Once cooled, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully develop flavor and firmness.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
  • Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to keep the batter from becoming too airy.
  • Consider baking the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moist heat and prevent cracks.
  • Let the cheesecake cool gradually to preserve smooth texture and avoid cracking.
  • Use a springform pan for easy removal and maintaining shape.

Nutrition

Keywords: classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, homemade cheesecake, vanilla cheesecake