Few desserts evoke the classic glamour of the dessert table like a perfectly baked cheesecake. This cheesecake is light and creamy, melting in your mouth, with a subtle tang and a golden graham cracker crust. Whether it’s a family gathering or a dinner party, this cheesecake is bound to impress your guests and become a favorite!
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs โ 180 g (1 and 1/2 cups)
- Granulated sugar โ 2 tablespoons
- Unsalted butter โ 65 g (1/4 cup)
- Cream cheese (room temperature) โ 3 blocks (680 g, 24 oz)
- Granulated sugar โ 200 g (1 cup)
- Salt โ 1/4 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract โ 10 ml (2 teaspoons)
- Sour cream โ 120 g (1/2 cup)
- Eggs โ 3
Instructions
- Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 175ยฐC (350ยฐF). In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press into the base and about 2.5 cm (1 inch) up the sides of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan. Bake for 15 minutes. - Prepare cream cheese mixture
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing at medium-low speed. Add salt and vanilla extract. Mix until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed. - Add remaining ingredients
With the mixer on medium-low, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, add sour cream and mix until everything is smooth and nicely blended. - Pour, bake and cool
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake the cheesecake initially at 175ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 150ยฐC (300ยฐF) and bake for another 30โ35 minutes, until the center slightly wobbles. Turn off the oven, leaving the cake inside with the door closed for 1 hour. This helps avoid cracks. - Chill and serve
Allow the cheesecake to reach room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours. Before serving, gently remove from the springform pan. Top with whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.
Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or adorned with beautiful toppings, this cheesecake promises to be a treat that delights every palate. Perfect for special occasions or just to treat yourself. Enjoy every creamy, sweet bite!
