Sour Cream Cheesecake
Sour Cream Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the tangy zest of sour cream, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture and vibrant flavor. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it offers a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, making it an irresistible classic enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a firm, buttery base. Chill the crust while preparing the filling to ensure it sets properly.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to maintain a silky texture. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract to achieve the cheesecake’s signature tang and aroma.
- Bake with Care: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Bake gently at 325°F (163°C), ideally using a water bath, to prevent cracks and maintain moisture. Bake for approximately 55-65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it overnight (at least 6 hours) to firm up the texture and meld the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating air, which can cause cracks.
- Baking in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents cracking.
- Cool the cheesecake gradually to minimize sudden temperature changes that lead to cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to develop full flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: sour cream cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, tangy dessert, classic cheesecake, easy cheesecake