Description
This Cream Cheese Cake is a decadent and easy-to-make classic dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, creamy filling. Perfectly baked to achieve a slightly jiggly center, this irresistible cake is chilled to enhance its rich texture and flavor. Ideal for celebrations or a special treat, it can be topped with fresh berries or sauces for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust base. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set, then remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, ensuring no lumps remain. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, and a pinch of salt, then gently mix just until the batter is smooth and homogenous without overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese batter over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, transfer the cake to the refrigerator and chill it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set fully and develop its creamy texture.
- Serve: Before serving, consider topping the cheesecake with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
Notes
- Top with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
- For clean slicing, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts to prevent sticking.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overbake; a slightly jiggly center ensures a creamy texture after chilling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
