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Classic Cheesecake Recipe

Classic Cheesecake Recipe

Classic Cheesecake Recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and luscious filling, perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this timeless cheesecake balances velvety texture and traditional flavors that everyone loves.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 g) sour cream
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Start by crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs and mixing them with melted butter to form a base. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even, compact crust. Chill the crust while you prepare the filling for better structure.
  2. Beat the cream cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, then eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract carefully. Avoid over-mixing to prevent trapping air.
  3. Pour and smooth the batter: Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles for a consistent texture.
  4. Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C), preferably in a water bath (bain-marie) to maintain moisture and prevent cracking. Bake until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly, about 50-60 minutes.
  5. Cool and chill: Let the cheesecake cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting time allows it to firm up and develop the ideal creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream for smooth mixing.
  • Avoid over-mixing to prevent cracks during baking.
  • Use a water bath to maintain even heat and moisture.
  • Don’t overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly.
  • Chill thoroughly to set the cheesecake and enhance flavors.

Nutrition

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